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Adaptation Quote by Norman Macbeth

“When the most learned evolutionists can give neither the how nor the why, the marvels seem to show that adaptation is inexplicable. Yet those who cannot explain it will not admit that it is inexplicable. This is a strange situation, only partly ascribable to the rather unscientific conviction that…” quote by Norman Macbeth
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“When the most learned evolutionists can give neither the how nor the why, the marvels seem to show that adaptation is inexplicable. Yet those who cannot explain it will not admit that it is inexplicable. This is a strange situation, only partly ascribable to the rather unscientific conviction that evidence will be found in the future. It is due to a psychological quirk [in the minds of its advocates].”

Norman Macbeth

About This Quote

Adaptation appears mysterious when experts cannot explain it, yet they deny its mystery, relying on future evidence and psychological bias.

In simple terms: Adaptation seems mysterious and denied.

Key Takeaway

Question unexplainable adaptation.

Themes

science philosophy psychology

Mood

critical inquisitive

Type

analytical skeptical

When to use this quote

  • research
  • education
  • policy making
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

cognitive bias epistemology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why resist admitting uncertainty?
  • What biases affect our view of evolution?
A Different Perspective

Science may overstate future certainty.

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