Meaning: The quote, "We used to speak familiarly of an agent, now do more, who was accustomed to manufacture evidence, and to invent facts in his cases, or at least to alter the aspects of facts to such an extent that they might fairly be viewed as new," is a thought-provoking statement by George Combe, an educator known for his work in the field of phrenology and as a co-founder of the Edinburgh Phrenological Society. This quote addresses the issue of dishonesty and manipulation, specifically in the context of an "agent" who engages in the fabrication or distortion of evidence and facts in their cases.

In this quote, Combe is highlighting the unethical practices of individuals who are tasked with presenting evidence and facts in a case, whether it be legal, scientific, or otherwise. The use of the term "agent" suggests that this individual may be working on behalf of a client, employer, or organization, and their actions have significant implications for the outcomes of the cases in which they are involved.

The quote suggests that there was a time when such behavior was merely spoken about in familiar terms, indicating that it was somewhat accepted or at least acknowledged as a reality. However, the phrase "now do more" implies that this behavior has escalated or become more prevalent, perhaps to a degree that is concerning or alarming.

The act of "manufacturing evidence" and "inventing facts" speaks to the deliberate creation of false or misleading information to serve a particular agenda. This could occur in various contexts, such as in a legal trial where evidence is crucial to the determination of guilt or innocence, or in scientific research where fabricated data could lead to false conclusions and potentially harm public understanding or policy decisions.

Furthermore, the mention of altering the aspects of facts to the extent that they might be viewed as new highlights the insidious nature of such behavior. It suggests that even seemingly legitimate facts or evidence can be manipulated or distorted to the point where they no longer accurately represent the truth, leading to a skewed understanding of reality.

Combe's background as an educator and his involvement in phrenology, a field that sought to understand human behavior and personality through the study of skull shapes and sizes, adds an interesting layer to the quote. While phrenology itself has been widely discredited, Combe's interest in understanding human nature and behavior may have influenced his perspective on the importance of truth and integrity in the presentation of evidence and facts.

In today's world, where misinformation and "fake news" have become prevalent concerns, Combe's words remain relevant. The quote serves as a reminder of the ethical responsibility that individuals and institutions bear when presenting information, and the potential consequences of manipulating evidence or facts. It also raises questions about the broader societal implications of such behavior, including its impact on trust, accountability, and the pursuit of justice and truth.

In conclusion, George Combe's quote sheds light on the issue of manufacturing evidence, inventing facts, and altering the aspects of facts, emphasizing the need for integrity, honesty, and ethical conduct in the presentation of information. It prompts reflection on the potential consequences of such behavior and serves as a cautionary reminder of the importance of upholding truth and transparency in the pursuit of knowledge and justice.