Everything in nature is the result of fixed laws.
Charles DarwinRead
False facts are highly injurious to the progress of science, for they often endure long; but false views, if supported by some evidence, do little harm, for every one takes a salutary pleasure in proving their falseness.
Interpretation
What this quote means
False information can greatly hinder scientific advancement, while incorrect theories can be easily challenged and disproven.
In this quote, Charles Darwin emphasizes the detrimental impact of false facts on the advancement of science, suggesting that they persist and mislead progress for extended periods. In contrast, flawed theories that have some supporting evidence are less harmful because they invite scrutiny and provide opportunities for evidence-based correction, leading to a healthier scientific discourse and understanding.
Themes
ScienceFalse FactsProgressTheoriesKnowledge
In practice
Example use cases
During a science lecture, one might quote this to discuss the significance of evidence in research.
More from Charles Darwin
All quotes →The highest possible stage in moral culture is when we recognize that we ought to control our thoughts.
Charles DarwinRead
I am quite conscious that my speculations run beyond the bounds of true science....It is a mere rag of an hypothesis with as many flaw[s] & holes as sound parts.
Charles DarwinRead
We cannot fathom the marvelous complexity of an organic being; but on the hypothesis here advanced this complexity is much increased. Each living creature must be looked at as a microcosm--a little universe, formed of a host of self-propagating organisms, inconceivably minute and as numerous as the stars in heaven.
Charles DarwinRead
I have called this principle, by which each slight variation, if useful, is preserved, by the term of Natural Selection.
Charles DarwinRead
we are always slow in admitting any great change of which we do not see the intermediate steps
Charles DarwinRead
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