It is wrong for a man to say that he is certain of the objective truth of any proposition unless he can produce evidence which logically justifies that certainty.
Thomas HuxleyRead
To a clear eye the smallest fact is a window through which the infinite may be seen.
Interpretation
Small details can reveal greater truths about the universe.
Thomas Huxley's quote emphasizes the significance of observing small details in life, suggesting that even the most minor facts can provide profound insights into the larger realities of existence. It highlights the power of perception and understanding in grasping the broader dimensions of knowledge and experience.
In practice
During a lecture on the importance of attention to detail in scientific research.
It is wrong for a man to say that he is certain of the objective truth of any proposition unless he can produce evidence which logically justifies that certainty.
The child who has been taught to make an accurate elevation, plan, and section of a pint pot has had an admirable training in accuracy of eye and hand.
Let us have "sweet girl graduates" by all means. They will be none the less sweet for a little wisdom; and the "golden hair" will not curl less gracefully outside the head by reason of there being brains within.
The secret of genius is to carry the spirit of childhood into maturity.
It is the first duty of a hypothesis to be intelligible.
Of the few innocent pleasures left to men past middle life, the jamming of common sense down the throats of fools is perhaps the keenest.
He knew what the Beats know and what the great tennis player knows, son: learn to do nothing, with your whole head and body, and everything will be done by what's around you.
Some men storm imaginary Alps all their lives, and die in the foothills cursing difficulties which do not exist.
I feel I'm doing what I should've done a lifetime ago. For a little while I'm not afraid. Maybe it's because I'm doing the right thing at last. Maybe it's because I've done a rash thing and don't want to look the coward to you.
It's amazing how easily people are led to fury and chaos. Unhappy people with guns are not going to make this country great.
I have found that being honest is the best technique I can use. Right up front, tell people what you're trying to accomplish and what you're willing to sacrifice to accomplish it.
You might as well answer the door, my child, the truth is furiously knocking.
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