Skip to content

Accounts Quote by Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr

“Knowledge-it excites prejudices to call it science-is advancing as irresistibly, as majestically, as remorselessly as the ocean moves in upon the shore.” quote by Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr
Download Open image
“Knowledge-it excites prejudices to call it science-is advancing as irresistibly, as majestically, as remorselessly as the ocean moves in upon the shore.”

Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr

About This Quote

Source Speech: Address on Science, 1905

Science can intensify biases when presented as absolute truth, yet it also drives relentless progress like ocean tides.

In simple terms: Science can worsen prejudice but pushes forward.

Key Takeaway

Beware bias, embrace rigorous inquiry.

Themes

science bias progress truth

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

analytical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • policy making
  • public discourse
  • education
  • media reporting

Key Concepts

epistemology social influence methodology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate scientific facts from societal biases?
  • What safeguards ensure science serves humanity?
A Different Perspective

Science alone cannot guarantee objectivity; human interpretation matters.

3.1 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr

Explore all 193 Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr quotes

More Accounts quotes

Browse all 2,677 Accounts quotes