Vague and mysterious forms of speech, and abuse of language, have so long passed for mysteries of science; and hard or misapplied words with little or no meaning have, by prescription, such a right to be mistaken for deep learning and height of speculation, that it will not be easy to persuade either those who speak or those who hear them, that they are but the covers of ignorance and hindrance of true knowledge.

Summary

This quote suggests that the use of vague and complex language has often been mistaken for deep knowledge and scientific expertise. Words with little meaning, when used improperly or unnecessarily, have become accepted as signs of deep understanding. As a result, it is challenging to convince both the speakers and listeners that these words only serve as a mask for ignorance and an obstacle to gaining true knowledge. The quote highlights the prevalence of obscure language in academia and warns against mistaking it for true intelligence.

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