Absolute truth Quote by Robert M. Pirsig
“The purpose of scientific method is to select a single truth from among many hypothetical truths. That, more than anything else, is what science is all about. But historically science has done exactly the opposite. Through multiplication upon multiplication of facts, information, theories and hypotheses, it is science itself that is leading mankind from single absolute truths to multiple indeterminate, relative ones.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, 1974
Science aims for a single truth but often yields many relative truths through accumulating data.
In simple terms: Science seeks truth but creates many.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about absolute truth.
Themes
science
philosophy
truth
methodology
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- research projects
- policy making
- education curricula
- public discourse
Key Concepts
relativism
epistemology
scientific process
Questions to Reflect On
- Is single truth achievable?
- How does relativism affect scientific confidence?
A Different Perspective
Complexity can obscure clear conclusions.
