Equipped with his five senses, man explores the universe around him and calls the adventure Science.
Edwin Powell HubbleRead
There we measure shadows, and we search among ghostly errors of measurement for landmarks that are scarcely more substantial.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the challenges of understanding the universe through measurement, hinting at the imperfections of human knowledge.
Edwin Powell Hubble's quote delves into the complexities of astronomical observations, emphasizing that as we attempt to quantify and understand the universe, we often rely on measurements that are imprecise and ephemeral. The shadows we measure symbolize the elusive nature of cosmic truths, while the 'ghostly errors' represent the uncertainties inherent in scientific inquiry. This statement conveys a profound sense of humility in the face of the vast unknown, highlighting both the significance and limitations of our quest for knowledge.
Themes
MeasurementUniverseKnowledgeUncertaintyScience
In practice
Example use cases
In a talk about the challenges of scientific discovery, this quote can illustrate the importance of understanding measurement errors.
More from Edwin Powell Hubble
All quotes βAt the last dim horizon, we search among ghostly errors of observations for landmarks that are scarcely more substantial. The search will continue. The urge is older than history. It is not satisfied and it will not be oppressed.
Edwin Powell HubbleRead
The history of astronomy is a history of receding horizons.
Edwin Powell HubbleRead
Equipped with our five senses - along with telescopes and microscopes and mass spectrometers and seismographs and magnetometers and particle accelerators and detectors sensitive to the entire electromagnetic spectrum - we explore the universe around us and call the adventure science.
Edwin Powell HubbleRead
All nature is a vast symbolism: Every material fact has sheathed within it a spiritual truth.
Edwin Powell HubbleRead
Observations always involve theory.
Edwin Powell HubbleRead
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