The most heated defenders of a science, who cannot endure the slightest sneer at it, are commonly those who have not made very much progress in it and are secretly aware of this defect.

Summary

This quote suggests that individuals who fiercely defend and protect a scientific field are often those who have not advanced significantly within that field and are aware of their own shortcomings. Their strong defense may be a result of their insecurity and fear of being exposed for their lack of expertise. By vehemently protecting their chosen discipline, they attempt to project an image of knowledge and authority, despite their own limitations.

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