Accepting Quote by William Jennings Bryan
“The first objection to Darwinism is that it is only a guess and was never anything more. It is called a "hypothesis," but the word "hypothesis," though euphonious, dignified and high-sounding, is merely a scientific synonym for the old-fashioned word "guess." If Darwin had advanced his views as a guess they would not have survived for a year, but they have floated for half a century, buoyed up by the inflated word "hypothesis." When it is understood that "hypothesis" means "guess," people will inspect it more carefully before accepting it.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public address, early 20th century
He argues that calling Darwin’s theory a “hypothesis” merely disguises it as a guess, urging scrutiny.
In simple terms: Darwinism labeled as hypothesis is just a guess, needing careful review.
Key Takeaway
Question and test scientific claims.
Themes
science
skepticism
language
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- education
- debate
- public policy
- scientific literacy
Key Concepts
terminology
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How does terminology affect public acceptance of science?
- What criteria should distinguish a hypothesis from a theory?
A Different Perspective
Scientific theories often survive rigorous testing despite initial labeling.
![“In the study of this membrane [the retina] I for the first time felt my faith in Darwinism (hypothesis of natural selection) weakened, being amazed and confounded by the supreme constructive ingenuity revealed not only in the retina and in the dioptric apparatus of the vertebrates but even in the…” quote by Santiago Ramon y Cajal](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/42d/santiago-ramon-y-cajal-17256_amazed_in-the-study-of-this-membrane-the-retina_1148128.jpg)
