Quote by Herman Melville
A man of true science... uses but few hard words, and those only when none other will answer his purpose; whereas the smatterer in science... thinks, that by mouthing hard words, he proves that he understands hard things.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the distinction between a true scientist and someone who pretends to understand scientific concepts. A genuine scientist uses simple language, only resorting to complex terms when necessary. They prioritize clarity and effective communication over the appearance of expertise. In contrast, an individual who lacks deep understanding believes that using complicated vocabulary demonstrates their comprehension of complex ideas. The quote critiques those who rely on jargon as a facade for knowledge, highlighting the importance of substance and genuine comprehension in the pursuit of true science.