Evidence Quote by T. Colin Campbell
““Scientists can argue philosophy all day long, but what really counts is evidence. This begs the question: What counts as evidence? What ways of looking for answers are considered good or bad science? Which methods are appropriate for what subjects of exploration? The answers to these questions are themselves quite subjective, even if science believes itself to be an objective, value-free pursuit. They depend heavily on the questions being asked, and also on how the answers are sought.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Science of Nutrition by T. Colin Campbell, 2005
Science’s value lies in evidence, but what counts as evidence varies with context and perspective.
In simple terms: Evidence depends on questions and methods.
Key Takeaway
Critically evaluate evidence.
Themes
science
philosophy
methodology
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- medical research
- education
- public debate
Key Concepts
epistemology
subjectivity
research design
Questions to Reflect On
- What counts as evidence in your field?
- How do values shape scientific methods?
A Different Perspective
Strict evidence standards can dismiss valuable qualitative insights.
![“[In geology,] As in history, the material in hand remains silent if no questions are asked. The nature of these questions depends on the "school" to which the geologist belongs and on the objectivity of his investigations. Hans Cloos called this way of interrogation "the dialogue with the earth,"…” quote by Anonymous](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/8a7/anonymous-1_communication_in-geology-as-in-history-the-material-in_22470.jpg)
![“[T]he question "What is everything?" has no meaning, even though it seems to be profound. [...] The point is, perhaps, that I am not looking for a verbal answer, just as when I ask for a kiss, I do not want a piece of paper with "A kiss" written on it. It is rather that metaphysical wonder looks…” quote by Alan W. Watts](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/705/alan-w-watts-9497_curiosity_t-he-question-what-is-everything-has-no_3984.jpg)
![“Casein [the main protein found in dairy], in fact, is the most 'relevant' chemical carcinogen ever identified; its cancer-producin g effects occur in animals at consumption levels close to normal-striking ly unlike cancer-causing environmental chemicals that are fed to lab animals at a few hundred…” quote by T. Colin Campbell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/67f/t-colin-campbell-5387_animal_casein-the-main-protein-found-in-dairy-i_291857.jpg)
