Science is not infallible, but it is selfcorrecting from "summary" of The Demon-Haunted World by Carl Sagan
In our quest for understanding the universe, we must acknowledge that science is not without its flaws. It is a human endeavor, carried out by fallible beings who are subject to biases and errors. Scientists, like all of us, can make mistakes in their observations, interpretations, and conclusions. This is why skepticism and critical thinking are essential components of the scientific method. Despite its imperfections, science has a unique feature that sets it apart from other ways of knowing: it is self-correcting. The very nature of the scientific process allows for errors to be identified and corrected over time. When a scientific theory is proposed, it is subjected to rigorous testing through experiments and observations. If the results do not support the theory, it is either revised or discarded. This constant cycle of hypothesis, experimentation, and revision ensures that our understanding of the world is constantly evolving and improving. This self-correcting mechanism is what gives science its strength and reliability. It is not based on dogma or authority, but on empirical evidence and logical reasoning. When new evidence comes to light that challenges established theories, scientists are willing to reassess their beliefs and modify their ideas accordingly. This flexibility and openness to change are what make science such a powerful tool for uncovering the truths of the universe. Of course, the process of self-correction is not always smooth or immediate. Scientific paradigms can be resistant to change, and scientists themselves can be reluctant to let go of deeply held beliefs. However, in the long run, evidence and reason prevail. As Carl Sagan famously said, "Science is more than a body of knowledge; it is a way of thinking." It is a way of thinking that values curiosity, skepticism, and a willingness to be proven wrong. This is what allows science to advance and expand our understanding of the world in ways that other modes of inquiry cannot.
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