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Science, as everyone knows, is responsible, moderate, unsentimental, and otherwise good.
Noam Chomsky
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Science embodies objectivity and rationality in understanding the world.

In this quote, Noam Chomsky emphasizes the values of science, which include responsibility, moderation, and a lack of sentimentality. He suggests that these traits are essential for scientific inquiry, which allows for a clear and unbiased understanding of reality, and that such qualities contribute positively to society.

Themes

ScienceObjectivityRationalityInquiryTruth

In practice

Example use cases

During a public lecture on the importance of evidence-based decision making, one could use this quote to emphasize the attributes of science.

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There is no plausible theory under which the record of the Pentagon Papers can be interpreted as relating to the national defense.
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The 'free-floating intellectual' may occupy himself with problems because of their inherent interest and importance, perhaps to little effect.
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If you're teaching today what you were teaching five years ago, either the field is dead or you are.
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There are very few people who are going to look into the mirror and say, 'That person I see is a savage monster;' instead, they make up some construction that justifies what they do.
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The Republican Party has become overwhelmingly so extreme that it's hardly a traditional political party anymore.
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There is still much debate about whether torture has been effective in eliciting information - the assumption being, apparently, that if it is effective, then it may be justified.
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