Everything in nature is the result of fixed laws.
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Darwin acknowledges that his theories may not be fully supported by empirical evidence and are imperfect.
In this quote, Charles Darwin reflects on the tentative nature of his hypotheses regarding evolution. He admits that while his ideas have merit, they are riddled with flaws and uncertainties, highlighting the importance of continual questioning and refinement in the pursuit of scientific understanding.
Themes
ScienceHypothesisUncertaintyTheoryEvolution
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on the nature of scientific inquiry, one might say this quote to illustrate the tentative character of scientific knowledge.
More from Charles Darwin
All quotes βThe highest possible stage in moral culture is when we recognize that we ought to control our thoughts.
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
I am not the least afraid to die
Charles DarwinRead
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