Answers Quote by Stephen Jay Gould
“The fundamentalists, by 'knowing' the answers before they start, and then forcing nature into the straitjacket of their discredited preconceptions, lie outside the domain of science -or any honest intellectual inquiry.”
About This Quote
Source Book: "The Structure of Evolutionary Theory", 2002
Science must start without preconceived answers; forcing data into false frameworks undermines truth.
In simple terms: Science needs open‑minded inquiry.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions before testing.
Themes
science
methodology
skepticism
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
scientific
philosophical
When to use this quote
- research labs
- academic debates
- policy analysis
- public discourse
Key Concepts
philosophy of science
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you guard against bias?
- What steps ensure honest inquiry?
A Different Perspective
Preconceptions can bias interpretation.
