Delusion Quote by William John Macquorn Rankine
“Discrepancy between theory and practice, which in sound physical and mechanical science is a delusion, has a real existence in the minds of men; and that fallacy, through rejected by their judgments, continues to exert and influence over their acts.”
About This Quote
Source Book: "A Manual of the Steam Engine", 1858
Theory and practice often diverge; what seems logical in theory may not hold in real life, leading to mistaken judgments.
In simple terms: Theory can be misleading without practical testing.
Key Takeaway
Test ideas in real situations before trusting them.
Themes
science
philosophy
practice
error
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
academic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- engineering
- medicine
- policy making
- education
Key Concepts
epistemology
empiricism
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- When does theory become harmful?
- How can we bridge theory and practice?
A Different Perspective
Practical constraints may limit applicability of theory.
![“The words 'theory' and 'practice' are of Greek origin; they carry our thoughts back to the ancient philosophers by whom they were contrived, and by whom they were also contrasted and placed in opposition, as denoting two mutually conflicting and mutually inconsistent ideas. ... [this fallacy]…” quote by William John Macquorn Rankine](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/617/william-john-macquorn-rankine_ancient_the-words-theory-and-practice-are-of-gre_2795808.jpg)
![“It's [Los Angeles] mostly full of nonsense and delusion and egomania. They think they'll be young and beautiful forever, even though most of them aren't even young and beautiful now.” quote by Christopher Hitchens](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a86/christopher-hitchens-117_beautiful_it-s-los-angeles-mostly-full-of-nonsense_10462.jpg)
