Accounts Quote by Norbert Wiener
“I have said that science is impossible without faith. ... Inductive logic, the logic of Bacon, is rather something on which we can act than something which we can prove, and to act on it is a supreme assertion of faith ... Science is a way of life which can only fluorish when men are free to have faith.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Lecture on Science and Faith, 1940s
Argues that scientific progress relies on a foundational belief or faith, as empirical proof alone is insufficient.
In simple terms: Science needs a leap of faith.
Key Takeaway
Accept uncertainty as part of scientific inquiry.
Themes
faith
science
uncertainty
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- research funding
- academic debate
- policy making
Key Concepts
philosophy of science
inductive reasoning
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you maintain skepticism while embracing faith?
- When should belief yield to evidence?
A Different Perspective
Faith may conflict with empirical rigor, leading to dogmatism.
