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Accepting Quote by Michel Foucault

“You know the difference between a real science and a pseudoscience? A real science recognizes and accepts its own history without feeling attacked. When you tell a psychiatrist his mental institution came from a lazar house, he becomes infuriated.” quote by Michel Foucault
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“You know the difference between a real science and a pseudoscience? A real science recognizes and accepts its own history without feeling attacked. When you tell a psychiatrist his mental institution came from a lazar house, he becomes infuriated.”

Michel Foucault

About This Quote

Source Book: The Order of Things, Michel Foucault, 1966

A true science embraces its own history and critiques without feeling defensive, unlike pseudoscience which avoids self‑scrutiny.

In simple terms: Science should accept its past and critique it.

Key Takeaway

Embrace critical self‑reflection.

Themes

science history critique intellectual humility

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • policy development
  • public discourse
  • education reform

Key Concepts

philosophy epistemology self‑analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does acknowledging past mistakes strengthen a discipline?
  • What barriers prevent scientists from confronting their history?
A Different Perspective

Self‑critique can be resisted by entrenched interests.

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