Science is a way to not fool ourselves.
Carl SaganRead
If we are not able to ask skeptical questions, to interrogate those who tell us that something is true, to be skeptical of those in authority, then, we are up for grabs for the next charlatan (political or religious) who comes rambling along.
Interpretation
Critical thinking and skepticism are essential to avoid deception.
This quote emphasizes the importance of questioning and critically examining information, especially when it comes from authority figures. Without skepticism and inquiry, individuals become vulnerable to manipulation by those who may not have their best interests at heart, such as charlatans in politics or religion.
In practice
Use this quote to inspire a discussion on the importance of questioning information in a philosophy class.
Science is a way to not fool ourselves.
In more than one respect, the exploring of the Solar System and homesteading other worlds constitutes the beginning, much more than the end, of history.
How smart does a chimpanzee have to be before killing him constitutes murder?
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.
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.
The simplest thought, like the concept of the number one, has an elaborate logical underpinning.
We need to strengthen such inner values as contentment, patience and tolerance, as well as compassion for others. Keeping in mind that it is expressions of affection rather than money and power that attract real friends, compassion is the key to ensuring our own well-being.
What would be the good of rushing? You want these books to last.
Sometimes angels rush in where fools fear to tread.
And I will show that there is no imperfection in the present, and can be none in the future, And I will show that whatever happens to anybody it may be turned to beautiful results.
The experience gathered from books, though often valuable, is but the nature of learning; whereas the experience gained from actual life is one of the nature of wisdom.
I was taught to strive not because there were any guarantees of success but because the act of striving is in itself the only way to keep faith with life.
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