Breaking down Quote by Thomas Aquinas
“For it is necessary in every practical science to proceed in a composite (i.e. deductive) manner. On the contrary in speculative science, it is necessary to proceed in an analytical manner by breaking down the complex into elementary principles.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Summa Theologica, 13th century
Practical sciences use deduction; speculative sciences use analysis to break down complexity.
In simple terms: Science methods differ by field.
Apply the right method to the right discipline.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- research design
- education curriculum
- problem solving
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you combine deductive and analytic approaches?
- What are the limits of each method?
Rigid categorization may oversimplify interdisciplinary work.