Accounts Quote by Wyndham Lewis
“When we say 'science' we can either mean any manipulation of the inventive and organizing power of the human intellect: or we can mean such an extremely different thing as the religion of science, the vulgarized derivative from this pure activity manipulated by a sort of priestcraft into a great religious and political weapon.”
About This Quote
The passage contrasts two views of science: as a neutral, inventive process versus a dogmatic, quasi-religious ideology manipulated for power.
In simple terms: Science can be seen as creative or as a weaponized belief system.
Key Takeaway
Beware of treating science as an unquestioned authority.
Themes
science
philosophy
power
religion
Mood
analytical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- academic discourse
- policy making
- media representation
- education curricula
Key Concepts
epistemology
ideology
political manipulation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we distinguish genuine science from politicized rhetoric?
- What safeguards protect scientific integrity?
A Different Perspective
The quote may conflate legitimate scientific debate with extremist misuse.
