Accounts Quote by Richard M. Weaver
“Many of us who read the literature of social science as laymen are conscious of being admitted at a door which bears the watchword "scientific objectivity" and of emerging at another door which looks out upon a variety of projects for changing, renovating, or revolutionizing society. In consequence, we feel the need of a more explicit account of how the student of society passes from facts to values or statements of policy.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Ideas Have Consequences, Richard M. Weaver, 1947
Social science students must bridge factual analysis and value-driven policy, requiring explicit methodological guidance.
In simple terms: Science to values needs clear steps.
Seek explicit frameworks for fact‑to‑value transitions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- academic curricula
- public debates
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do values influence data interpretation?
- What frameworks aid transparent transitions?
Bridging facts and values is often contested.