Science is a way to not fool ourselves.
Carl SaganRead
When Kepler found his long-cherished belief did not agree with the most precise observation, he accepted the uncomfortable fact. He preferred the hard truth to his dearest illusions, that is the heart of science.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of accepting the truth, even when it challenges personal beliefs or desires.
In this quote, Carl Sagan illustrates the essence of scientific inquiry through the story of Johannes Kepler, who prioritized empirical evidence over his prior beliefs. It highlights the willingness to confront uncomfortable truths as a cornerstone of scientific progress and understanding, suggesting that integrity and objectivity in the pursuit of knowledge are fundamental values for anyone engaged in science.
Themes
ScienceTruthKnowledgeEmpiricismBelief
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a lecture on the scientific method to emphasize the importance of challenging preconceived notions.
More from Carl Sagan
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The hole in the ozone layer is a kind of skywriting. At first it seemed to spell out our continuing complacency before a witch's brew of deadly perils. But perhaps it really tells of a newfound talent to work together to protect the global environment.
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There is a reward structure in science that is very interesting: Our highest honors go to those who disprove the findings of the most revered among us. So Einstein is revered not just because he made so many fundamental contributions to science, but because he found an imperfection in the fundamental contribution of Isaac Newton.
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The simplest thought, like the concept of the number one, has an elaborate logical underpinning.
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