Meaning: Max Born's quote delves into the contrasting attitudes towards belief and the scientific method. Born, a renowned German physicist and mathematician, presents an insightful perspective on the nature of belief and its relationship with scientific inquiry. In this quote, he highlights two distinct groups of believers who hold objectionable views. The first group comprises individuals who believe in the incredible, while the second group advocates for the replacement of belief with the scientific method. Born's words provoke contemplation on the complexities and nuances of belief, skepticism, and the pursuit of knowledge through empirical investigation.

The "believers in the incredible" are individuals who subscribe to ideas or concepts that defy rational explanation or empirical evidence. This group may include those who embrace supernatural phenomena, pseudoscientific claims, or unsubstantiated theories without critically evaluating their validity. Born's characterization of this type of believer as "objectionable" suggests his disapproval of blind faith or acceptance of extraordinary claims without a basis in reason or evidence. By emphasizing the incredibility of their beliefs, Born challenges the intellectual integrity of this group and calls attention to the potential dangers of embracing unfounded or fantastical notions.

On the other hand, Born identifies the second objectionable type of believer as those who advocate for the replacement of belief with the scientific method. This group likely comprises individuals who prioritize empirical evidence, rigorous experimentation, and logical reasoning over faith or intuition. They may view belief as incompatible with the principles of scientific inquiry, advocating for a strict adherence to empirical data and the systematic application of the scientific method. Born's characterization of their perspective as objectionable suggests his concern with the potential dismissal of belief as a valid aspect of human cognition and emotional experience.

Born's quote encapsulates a profound tension between belief and the scientific method, highlighting the divergent approaches to understanding the world. The quote challenges individuals to critically examine their beliefs and encourages a balanced perspective that acknowledges the value of both belief and scientific inquiry. Born's assertion brings to the fore the inherent complexities of human cognition and the human experience, recognizing that belief and the scientific method serve distinct yet complementary roles in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

Born's own background as a mathematician and physicist provides valuable context for interpreting his viewpoint on belief and the scientific method. As a scientist, Born likely embraced the principles of empirical inquiry and the importance of evidence-based reasoning in advancing knowledge. However, his recognition of the objectionable nature of both blind belief in the incredible and the outright rejection of belief in favor of the scientific method suggests a nuanced understanding of the interplay between belief and empirical inquiry.

In conclusion, Max Born's quote offers a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of belief and its relationship with the scientific method. By identifying two objectionable types of believers, Born prompts contemplation on the complexities of belief, skepticism, and the pursuit of knowledge. His words encourage individuals to approach belief and scientific inquiry with nuance, recognizing the potential pitfalls of blind faith and the limitations of dismissing belief altogether. Born's perspective serves as a compelling invitation to engage in critical reflection on the intersections of belief, reason, and empirical investigation in the quest for understanding the world around us.