Candide Quote by Stephen Jay Gould
“Hyper-selectionism has been with us for a long time in various guises; for it represents the late nineteenth century's scientific version of the myth of natural harmony all is for the best in the best of all possible worlds (all structures well designed for a definite purpose in this case). It is, indeed, the vision of foolish Dr. Pangloss, so vividly satirized by Voltaire in Candide the world is not necessarily good, but it is the best we could possibly have.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Structure of Evolutionary Theory, Stephen Jay Gould, 2002
Critiques the belief that nature is perfectly designed, exposing the myth of inevitable optimality.
In simple terms: Nature isn’t always perfect.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions of perfect design.
Themes
science
philosophy
skepticism
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- technology design
- environmental planning
Key Concepts
Evolutionary biology
philosophy of science
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this affect scientific research?
- What are the risks of assuming optimal design?
A Different Perspective
Idealized views can ignore flaws.
![“The shrieks were coming from two quite naked girls, who were pursued by a pair of apes snapping at their bottoms. [...] So he now raises his double-barrelled Spanish rifle, fires and kills both apes. 'God be praised, my dear Calambo! I have delivered these two poor creatures from grave peril; if…” quote by Voltaire](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9a9/voltaire-173_apes_the-shrieks-were-coming-from-two-quite-n_173005.jpg)
