Accounts Quote by Walt Whitman
“I like the scientific spirit-the holding off, the being sure but not too sure, the willingness to surrender ideas when the evidence is against them: this is ultimately fine-it always keeps the way beyond open.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Age of Reason, 1859
Scientific openness means holding beliefs lightly, ready to change them when evidence contradicts, keeping inquiry alive.
In simple terms: Science is about flexible belief.
Key Takeaway
Stay open to new evidence.
Themes
science
critical thinking
open‑mindedness
Mood
curious
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- research
- debate
- policy making
Key Concepts
epistemology
skepticism
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you changed a belief due to evidence?
- How do you balance certainty and doubt?
A Different Perspective
Overconfidence can still block new ideas.
![“Without initiation into the scientific spirit one is not in possession of the best tools humanity has so far devised for effectively directed reflection. [Without these one] fails to understand the full meaning of knowledge.” quote by John Dewey](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6a4/john-dewey-545_failing_without-initiation-into-the-scientific-s_2108619.jpg)
