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Scientists search for truth. Philosophers search for morality. A criminal trial searches for only one result: proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
Alan Dershowitz
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote distinguishes the objectives of different fields: science, philosophy, and law.

Alan Dershowitz highlights the contrast between the aims of scientists, philosophers, and the legal system. While scientists pursue empirical truths and philosophers explore ethical principles, the legal arena focuses narrowly on establishing guilt based on sufficient evidence, marked by the standard of 'proof beyond a reasonable doubt.' This reflects the complexities and different priorities inherent in the quest for knowledge, morality, and justice.

Themes

TruthMoralityLawSciencePhilosophyJustice

In practice

Example use cases

In a debate about the role of evidence in criminal justice, this quote can emphasize the unique focus of law.

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Let no one ever shy away from the claim that Jews have power, that Jews have influence. We have learned the terrible lesson of history; that unless we have influence and power, disproportionate to our small numbers - immoral results will occur. We need power. And we must continue to use our power. Power which we earned, power which no one gave us on a silver platter, power which we worked hard for - use that power in the interests of justice.
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Quote by Alan Dershowitz | QuoteProject