Favorite Scientist quotes about Philosophy

[NoName013]

What are your favorite quotes, from scientists, about philosophical questions?
Explain why if you want, or let the quotes stand on their own.

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I don't think we're here for anything, we're just products of evolution. You can say 'Gee, your life must be pretty bleak if you don't think there's a purpose' but I'm anticipating a good lunch. -James Watson


My current behavior is the result of my present situation, my past experiences, and my genetic endowment. -B.F. Skinner (*Not an exact quote, but pretty close)

Steven Weinberg - : "the more the universe seems comprehensible, the more it seems pointless."

 

[3mpathy]

i personally like many things that schrodinger says, i would give a link, but i cannot find a quote website right now...

 

[kerimek]

One of my favorite quotes about philosophy comes from physicist Richard Feynman: "Philosophy of science is about as useful to scientists as ornithology is to birds." This quote highlights the divide between the practical, empirical nature of science and the abstract, theoretical nature of philosophy. It reminds us that while philosophy may be important in shaping our understanding of the world, it is ultimately the scientific method that allows us to truly understand and make progress in our understanding.

Another quote that stands out to me is from Nobel Prize-winning physicist Steven Weinberg: "The more the universe seems comprehensible, the more it seems pointless." This quote captures the sense of wonder and mystery that often accompanies scientific discoveries, as well as the realization that there may never be a definitive answer to some of the biggest philosophical questions about the meaning and purpose of life.

I also appreciate the perspective of biologist James Watson, who famously said, "I don't think we're here for anything, we're just products of evolution." This quote acknowledges the role of science in shaping our understanding of our origins and our place in the world, while also highlighting the complexity and randomness of the universe.

In the end, these quotes remind us that science and philosophy are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary ways of approaching the world. While science may provide us with concrete answers and explanations, philosophy allows us to contemplate the bigger questions and explore the deeper meaning behind our existence.