Science is always wrong. It never solves a problem without creating ten more
Science is always wrong. It never solves a problem without creating ten more
George Bernard Shaw, the renowned Irish playwright and critic, once famously said, "Science is always wrong. It never solves a problem without creating ten more." This statement reflects Shaw's skepticism towards the idea of science as a perfect and infallible system of knowledge. Shaw believed that while science has the power to solve some problems, it often leads to the creation of new challenges and dilemmas.Shaw's perspective on science can be seen in many of his works, where he often critiqued the limitations and unintended consequences of scientific advancements. In his play "Back to Methuselah," Shaw explores the idea of scientific progress leading to unforeseen consequences, such as the prolongation of human life leading to social and ethical dilemmas. Shaw's characters often grapple with the moral implications of scientific discoveries, highlighting the complex relationship between science and society.
One of the key themes in Shaw's work is the idea that scientific progress is not always linear or straightforward. While science has the potential to improve our lives and solve pressing problems, it also has the capacity to create new challenges and ethical dilemmas. Shaw's skepticism towards science can be seen as a reflection of his broader critique of modernity and progress, questioning the assumption that scientific knowledge is always beneficial and progressive.
Shaw's statement that "Science is always wrong" can be interpreted as a call for humility and critical reflection in the face of scientific advancements. Shaw believed that we should approach science with a healthy dose of skepticism and awareness of its limitations. While science has the power to transform our world, it is not a panacea and must be approached with caution and ethical consideration.