Meaning: This quote by Albert Nock, an American libertarian author, critic, and educational theorist, reflects his skepticism towards the progress of modern science. Nock's reference to "an ignorant man of letters" suggests that he himself may not have been a scientist or a specialist in the field, but rather an educated individual who was observing and reflecting on the developments in science during his time. The quote implies that Nock believed that despite the advancements in scientific knowledge, the fundamental position and understanding of science had not significantly progressed beyond what was held by prominent scientists such as Thomas Henry Huxley and George Romanes in the 19th century.

Thomas Henry Huxley, often referred to as "Darwin's Bulldog," was a prominent English biologist known for his advocacy of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. He was a leading proponent of the idea that humans and apes shared a common ancestor, and he vigorously defended the theory of evolution through his writings and public debates. George Romanes, on the other hand, was a Canadian-Scottish evolutionary biologist and protégé of Darwin. He made significant contributions to the study of animal intelligence and the evolutionary process.

Nock's comparison of modern science to the positions held by Huxley and Romanes in the last century raises important questions about the nature of scientific progress and the evolution of scientific thought. It suggests a certain level of skepticism towards the notion of linear progress in scientific understanding and the idea that each new generation of scientists necessarily builds upon and surpasses the knowledge of their predecessors.

Nock's perspective may reflect a broader skepticism towards the rapid advancements and claims of scientific knowledge, particularly in the context of the early 20th century when significant scientific breakthroughs were occurring in fields such as physics, chemistry, and biology. It is important to consider the historical context in which Nock made this statement, as the early 20th century was a period of profound scientific and technological change, with developments such as quantum mechanics, relativity theory, and the discovery of the structure of DNA reshaping our understanding of the natural world.

Nock's reference to "an ignorant man of letters" also raises questions about the role of non-specialists in evaluating and understanding scientific developments. It highlights the tension between the specialized knowledge of scientists and the broader public's ability to comprehend and critically engage with scientific ideas. Nock's use of the term "ignorant" may also reflect a sense of humility and recognition of the limitations of his own understanding in the face of complex scientific theories and discoveries.

In considering Nock's quote, it is important to recognize the diversity of perspectives within the scientific community itself. While some may share Nock's skepticism towards claims of revolutionary progress in science, others may argue that the cumulative effect of scientific research and discovery has indeed led to significant advancements in our understanding of the natural world. The quote invites us to reflect on the nature of scientific progress, the relationship between scientific experts and the broader public, and the complexities of evaluating the trajectory of scientific knowledge.

In conclusion, Albert Nock's quote invites us to consider the nature of scientific progress and the challenges of evaluating the evolution of scientific thought. It prompts us to reflect on the relationship between specialized scientific knowledge and the broader public's understanding of science, as well as the complexities of assessing the trajectory of scientific knowledge over time. Nock's skepticism towards the notion of linear progress in science invites us to critically engage with the claims of scientific advancement and to consider the diverse perspectives within the scientific community.