Quote by Stephen Jay Gould

In science, 'fact' can only mean 'confirmed to such a degree that it would be perverse to withhold provisional assent.' I suppose that apples might start to rise tomorrow, but the possibility does not merit equal time in physics classrooms.

In science, 'fact' can only mean 'confirmed to such a degree

Summary

This quote conveys the scientific perspective on the notion of 'fact.' It suggests that a fact in science means something that has been confirmed and supported to such an extent that it would be unreasonable to doubt it. The quote uses the example of apples rising tomorrow to illustrate that, although it is theoretically possible, such a claim lacks sufficient evidence and is not given equal consideration in the study of physics. It emphasizes the importance of evidence-based consensus in scientific understanding rather than entertaining purely speculative or unverified ideas.

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By Stephen Jay Gould

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