Meaning: The quote "Here's a bunch of people practising a new set of behavioural norms. Apparently it didn't work because a lot of them got sick. That's the conclusion. You don't necessarily know why it happened. But you start there." by Kary Mullis, a scientist and Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry, reflects a critical perspective on the process of observing and analyzing outcomes. In this quote, Mullis suggests that when faced with an unexpected result, the starting point for understanding the situation is to acknowledge the observed outcome and then work backward to uncover the underlying causes. This approach is fundamental to the scientific method and is applicable in various fields of study, including medicine, social sciences, and beyond.

Mullis' quote can be interpreted in the context of scientific research and experimentation. When scientists conduct experiments, they often have specific hypotheses or expectations about the outcomes. However, when the results deviate from these expectations, it becomes necessary to reevaluate the initial assumptions and consider alternative explanations. This process of reevaluation and exploration of potential causes is integral to advancing scientific understanding and discovering new insights.

In the context of public health or epidemiology, the quote can be applied to situations where a group of people adopts a new set of behavioral norms, and as a result, experiences adverse health effects. This could relate to the introduction of a new diet, lifestyle practice, or environmental change that leads to unexpected illness or disease. Mullis' assertion that "you don't necessarily know why it happened" underscores the complexity of identifying the precise factors contributing to the observed outcome. It highlights the need for thorough investigation and analysis to uncover the root causes of the health issues.

Moreover, the quote can also be interpreted in the context of societal or cultural shifts. When a community or society undergoes significant changes in behavior or practices, there may be unintended consequences that manifest in the form of societal unrest, psychological distress, or other negative outcomes. Mullis' emphasis on starting with the observed conclusion and then exploring the underlying reasons aligns with the principles of social science research, where sociologists and anthropologists seek to understand the impacts of cultural shifts and societal changes on human behavior and well-being.

Furthermore, Mullis' quote can be related to the broader concept of problem-solving and decision-making. In various professional and personal contexts, individuals are often confronted with unexpected outcomes or challenges that require careful analysis and problem-solving skills. Mullis' approach underscores the significance of acknowledging the observed effects and then systematically investigating the contributing factors. This methodology is relevant in fields such as business, engineering, and policy-making, where critical thinking and analytical reasoning are essential for addressing complex issues and making informed decisions.

In conclusion, Kary Mullis' quote encapsulates the importance of critically examining unexpected outcomes and phenomena by starting with the observed conclusion and then delving into the underlying causes. Whether applied in scientific research, public health, social sciences, or problem-solving contexts, this approach underscores the necessity of thorough analysis and exploration to unravel the complexities of human behavior, societal changes, and the natural world. By embracing this perspective, individuals and researchers can foster a deeper understanding of the factors shaping our experiences and outcomes, ultimately leading to meaningful insights and advancements in knowledge.