Accounts Quote by William James
“Science as such assuredly has no authority, for she can only say what is, not what is not.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Pragmatism, 1907
Science describes what exists, not what does not, limiting its authority to observable facts.
In simple terms: Science only tells what is, not what isn’t.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the limits of scientific knowledge.
Themes
science
knowledge
authority
philosophy
limits
Mood
inquisitive
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- research planning
- policy making
- public discourse
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
empiricism
ontology
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you handle unknowns?
- What lies beyond empirical evidence?
A Different Perspective
Science cannot address moral or metaphysical questions fully.
