The most essential characteristic of scientific technique is that it proceeds from experiment, not from tradition. The experimental habit of mind is a difficult one for most people to maintain ; indeed, the science of one generation has already become the tradition of the next...

Summary

This quote emphasizes the importance of the experimental approach in scientific technique and challenges the dependence on tradition. It suggests that true scientific progress is achieved through experimentation rather than blindly following established practices. The quote also acknowledges the difficulty in adopting an experimental mindset, as many tend to persist with traditional beliefs. Moreover, it highlights that what is considered established science in one generation often becomes the basis for future generations, further emphasizing the necessity for scientific exploration and breaking away from tradition.

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