Science is a way of trying not to fool yourself. The first principle is that you must not fool yourself, and you are the easiest person to fool.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The core of science is avoiding self-deception because humans are naturally biased. You must rigorously test your own ideas to avoid fooling yourself.
- In plain terms
- Science starts by not lying to yourself since you are your own biggest fool.
- What can you take from it?
- Question your own assumptions first to find truth.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What beliefs do I refuse to question?
- How do I test my own biases?
Another view
External verification is also needed since self-correction has limits.
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