The history of acceptance of new theories frequently shows the following steps: At first the new idea is treated as pure nonsense, not worth looking at. Then comes a time when a multitude of contradictory objections are raised, such as: the new theory is too fancy, or merely a new terminology; it is not fruitful, or simply wrong. Finally a state is reached when everyone seems to claim that he had always followed this theory. This usually marks the last state before general acceptance.
Interpretation
New ideas often face skepticism before gaining acceptance, illustrating the challenging journey of scientific theories. Over time, criticisms fade, and the ideas are embraced as obvious truths.
Kurt Lewin highlights the typical progression of how innovative theories are received in scientific discourse. Initially dismissed as nonsense, these ideas attract criticism and skepticism as they challenge established norms. However, with time, as they gain traction and credibility, the very same theories are eventually embraced and recognized, often with individuals claiming they have always supported them. This cycle emphasizes the sometimes arduous path of acceptance for groundbreaking thoughts and innovations.
In practice
In a science class discussing the evolution of theories, this quote can emphasize the importance of remaining open to new ideas.
The American culture ideal of the "self-made-man," of everyone "standing on his own feet" seemed as tragic a picture as the initiative-destroying dependence on a benevolent despot. He felt and perceived clearly that we all need continuous help from each other, and that this type of interdependence is the greatest challenge to maturity of individual and group functioning.
Learning is more effective when it is an active rather than a passive process.
If you want truly to understand something, try to change it.
Fortunately I experienced Max Wertheimer's teaching in Berlin and collaborated for over a decade with Wolfgang Köhler. I need not emphasize my debts to these outstanding personalities. The fundamental ideas of Gestalt theory are the foundation of all our investigations in the field of the will, of affection, and of the personality.
Science not only purifies the religious impulse of the dross of its anthropomorphism but also contributes to a religious spiritualization of our understanding of life.
All exact science is dominated by the idea of approximation.
Science is wonderfully equipped to answer the question 'How?' but it gets terribly confused when you ask the question 'Why?'
The scientific spirit is of more value than its products, and irrationally held truths may be more harmful than reasoned errors.
At one point consciousness-altering devices like the microscope and telescope were criminalized for exactly the same reasons that psychedelic plants were banned in later years. They allow us to peer into bits and zones of Chaos.
Science is basically an inoculation against charlatans.
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