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Care Quote by Samuel Butler

“There are two classes [of scientists], those who want to know, and do not care whether others think they know or not, and those who do not much care about knowing, but care very greatly about being reputed as knowing.” quote by Samuel Butler
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“There are two classes [of scientists], those who want to know, and do not care whether others think they know or not, and those who do not much care about knowing, but care very greatly about being reputed as knowing.”

Samuel Butler

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Book of the Machines", 1863

Scientists split into two types: those driven by pure curiosity and those motivated by reputation.

In simple terms: Two motivations: knowledge vs. status.

Key Takeaway

Seek truth, not fame.

Themes

curiosity reputation science

Mood

analytical critical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • public policy
  • media coverage

Key Concepts

epistemology social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you value curiosity over fame?
  • How does reputation affect your work?
A Different Perspective

Reputation can also drive rigorous work; not purely negative.

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