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As long as scientists are free to pursue the truth wherever it may lead, there will be a flow of new scientific knowledge to those who can apply it to practical problems.
Vannevar Bush
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Scientific freedom leads to practical advancements and applications of knowledge.

This quote emphasizes the importance of scientific freedom in the pursuit of truth. It suggests that when scientists are allowed to explore and investigate without restrictions, they can generate new knowledge that can then be applied to solve real-world problems, ultimately benefiting society at large.

Themes

ScienceTruthKnowledgeFreedomApplication

In practice

Example use cases

In a seminar discussing the role of science in society, this quote could illustrate the importance of academic freedom.

More from Vannevar Bush

Science has a simple faith, which transcends utility... It is the faith that it is the privilege of man to learn to understand, and that this is his mission.
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A record, if it is to be useful to science, must be continuously extended, it must be stored, and above all it must be consulted.
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A belief may be larger than a fact.
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Basic scientific research is scientific capital.
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Fear cannot be banished, but it can be calm and without panic; it can be mitigated by reason and evaluation.
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