Burden Quote by Paul Feyerabend
“Taking experimental results and observations for granted and putting the burden of proof on the theory means taking the observational ideology for granted without having ever examined it.”
About This Quote
Critiques blind acceptance of data without questioning underlying assumptions, urging scrutiny of the observational basis of theories.
In simple terms: Question the assumptions behind data.
Key Takeaway
Examine data foundations.
Themes
science
philosophy
critical thinking
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- research design
- policy analysis
- education
- media reporting
Key Concepts
epistemology
theory testing
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions underlie your data?
- How can you test those assumptions?
A Different Perspective
Can lead to paralysis by over‑questioning.
![“The threat [of the U.S. bills SOPA and PIPA] is the inversion of the burden of proof, where we suddenly are all treated like thieves at every moment we're given the freedom to create, to produce or to share.” quote by Clay Shirky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/572/clay-shirky-3364_bills_the-threat-of-the-u-s-bills-sopa-and-pip_439701.jpg)
