It may be true, that men, who are mere mathematicians, have certain specific shortcomings, but that is not the fault of mathematics, for it is equally true of every other exclusive occupation. So there are mere philologists, mere jurists, mere soldiers, mere merchants, etc. To such idle talk it might further be added: that whenever a certain exclusive occupation is coupled with specific shortcomings, it is likewise almost certainly divorced from certain other shortcomings.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Gauss notes that every specialized profession has its own flaws, not just mathematics.
- In plain terms
- All specialized fields have shortcomings.
- What can you take from it?
- Avoid blaming a discipline for traits that are common to many.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How can we fairly assess the strengths and weaknesses of a profession?
- What are the dangers of stereotyping specialists?
Another view
May downplay discipline‑specific issues.
More from Carl Friedrich Gauss
Mathematics is the queen of the sciences.
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