Science operates in the natural, not the supernatural. In fact, I go so far as to state that there is no such thing as the supernatural or the paranormal.
Michael ShermerRead
But because we live in an age of science, we have a preoccupation with corroborating our myths.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the tension between scientific reasoning and traditional beliefs or myths.
Michael Shermer's quote reflects on the modern era's reliance on science and the necessity to validate our longstanding beliefs or myths through empirical evidence. It suggests that while science provides clarity, it also challenges the narratives we've accepted for centuries, prompting a reevaluation of what we consider true or valuable in our understanding of the world.
Themes
ScienceMythBeliefTruthCorroboration
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a discussion about the role of science in society during a panel on modern myths.
More from Michael Shermer
All quotes βSmart people believe weird things because they are skilled at defending beliefs they arrived at for non-smart reasons.
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Being deeply knowledgeable on one subject narrows one's focus and increases confidence, but it also blurs dissenting views until they are no longer visible, thereby transforming data collection into bias confirmation and morphing self-deception into self-assurance.
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How can we find spiritual meaning in a scientific worldview? Spirituality is a way of being in the world, a sense of oneβs place in the cosmos, a relationship to that which extends beyond oneself. . . . Does scientific explanation of the world diminish its spiritual beauty? I think not. Science and spirituality are complementary, not conflicting; additive, not detractive. Anything that generates a sense of awe may be a source of spirituality. Science does this in spades. (158-159)
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Iβm a skeptic not because I do not want to believe, but because I want to know.
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My libertarian beliefs have not always served me well. Like most people who hold strong ideological convictions, I find that, too often, my beliefs trump the scientific facts.
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