Belief Quote by Willard Van Orman Quine
“Unlike Descartes, we own and use our beliefs of the moment, even in the midst of philosophizing, until by what is vaguely called scientific method we change them here and there for the better. Within our own total evolving doctrine, we can judge truth as earnestly and absolutely as can be, subject to correction, but that goes without saying.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Word and Object, 1960
Argues that beliefs are provisional, revised by scientific method, yet we can still earnestly judge truth.
In simple terms: Beliefs change via science, yet we can judge truth.
Key Takeaway
Accept provisional truth.
Themes
philosophy
science
epistemology
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
academic
When to use this quote
- academic research
- policy development
- personal growth
Key Concepts
belief revision
scientific method
truth criteria
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance provisional beliefs with moral convictions?
- Can absolute truth ever be known?
A Different Perspective
Scientific method may not resolve all philosophical disputes.
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