I believe there is no philosophical high-road in science, with epistemological signposts. No, we are in a jungle and find our way by trial and error, building our road behind us as we proceed.
Max BornRead
I believe that ideas such as absolute certitude, absolute exactness, final truth, etc. are figments of the imagination which should not be admissible in any field of science... This loosening of thinking seems to me to be the greatest blessing which modern science has given to us. For the belief in a single truth and in being the possessor thereof is the root cause of all evil in the world.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Max Born argues that cling to absolutes in science and truth can lead to misinterpretation and problems in understanding.
In this quote, Max Born emphasizes the importance of flexibility in scientific thinking, suggesting that the pursuit of absolute certainty and final truths can hinder progress and understanding. He believes that by recognizing the limitations and subjectivity of our knowledge, we open ourselves to new perspectives and potentially greater insights, which can ultimately lead to a more harmonious and enlightened view of the world.
Themes
ScienceTruthFlexibilityKnowledgePerspective
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on the philosophy of science, this quote can be used to illustrate the importance of questioning established beliefs.
More from Max Born
All quotes →I am now convinced that theoretical physics is actually philosophy.
Max BornRead
We have sought for firm ground and found none. _x000D_ The deeper we penetrate, the more restless becomes the universe; all is rushing about and vibrating in a wild dance.
Max BornRead
There are two objectionable types of believers: those who believe the incredible and those who believe that 'belief' must be discarded and replaced by 'the scientific method.
Max BornRead
Science is not formal logic-it needs the free play of the mind in as great a degree as any other creative art. It is true that this is a gift which can hardly be taught, but its growth can be encouraged in those who already posses it.
Max BornRead
His [Erwin Schrödinger's] private life seemed strange to bourgeois people like ourselves. But all this does not matter. He was a most lovable person, independent, amusing, temperamental, kind and generous, and he had a most perfect and efficient brain.
Max BornRead
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