By the worldly standards of public life, all scholars in their work are of course oddly virtuous. They do not make wild claims, they do not cheat, they do not try to persuade at any cost, they appeal neither to prejudice nor to authority, they are often frank about their ignorance, their disputes are fairly decorous, they do not confuse what is being argued with race, politics, sex or age, they listen patiently to the young and to the old who both know everything. These are the general virtues of scholarship, and they are peculiarly the virtues of science.

Summary

This quote highlights the unique virtues of scholars and scientists in their pursuit of knowledge. Unlike public figures who often employ deceit and manipulation, scholars adhere to a certain level of integrity. They do not make exaggerated claims or resort to persuasion tactics. Instead, they approach their work with honesty, acknowledging their own limitations and engaging in respectful debates. Furthermore, scholars prioritize the pursuit of knowledge above personal biases or societal divisions. They actively listen and value the perspectives of both the young and the old, recognizing the importance of collective wisdom in their scholarly endeavors.

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