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About this quote

What does it mean?
Accurate language is necessary for scientific truth; avoiding clear terms is unscientific.
In plain terms
Scientific inquiry requires calling things by their true names.
What can you take from it?
Precision in language supports scientific honesty.

Where it applies

  • research
  • communication

Putting it to work

  • use precise terms
  • avoid euphemisms

Questions to consider

  • When is indirect language necessary?

Another view

Sometimes indirect language serves social purposes better than bluntness.

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