Meaning: The quote "Science is properly more scrupulous than dogma. Dogma gives a charter to mistake, but the very breath of science is a contest with mistake, and must keep the conscience alive" by George Eliot reflects the idea that science is inherently more cautious and meticulous than dogma. It suggests that dogmatic beliefs can lead to the acceptance of mistakes, while science is a continuous pursuit of truth, requiring constant vigilance and critical thinking.

George Eliot, the pen name of Mary Ann Evans, was an English novelist, poet, journalist, and translator who lived during the 19th century. She was known for her insightful and thought-provoking writing, and her quote on science and dogma reflects her keen understanding of the relationship between belief systems and the pursuit of knowledge.

In this quote, George Eliot contrasts the nature of science with that of dogma. Dogma refers to a set of principles or beliefs that are laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true. It often involves rigid adherence to established beliefs, without room for questioning or revision. Science, on the other hand, is characterized by a commitment to inquiry, evidence-based reasoning, and a willingness to challenge and revise existing knowledge in the pursuit of truth.

The assertion that "Science is properly more scrupulous than dogma" implies that the scientific method demands a higher level of scrutiny and conscientiousness than dogmatic belief systems. In the realm of science, hypotheses are rigorously tested, evidence is critically evaluated, and conclusions are subject to revision based on new data or insights. This constant contest with mistakes, as George Eliot describes it, is a fundamental aspect of the scientific process. It requires scientists to confront and learn from errors, fostering an ongoing commitment to intellectual honesty and self-correction.

The quote also emphasizes the importance of keeping the conscience alive in the pursuit of knowledge. In the context of science, this can be interpreted as a call for ethical and moral integrity in research and the application of scientific findings. It suggests that the pursuit of knowledge should be guided by a sense of responsibility and a commitment to truth, rather than by unquestioning adherence to entrenched beliefs.

George Eliot's quote resonates with the broader historical and philosophical debate between scientific inquiry and dogmatic authority. Throughout history, scientific progress has often been hindered by dogmatic adherence to prevailing beliefs, whether religious, political, or ideological. The quote reflects a recognition of the need for critical thinking, open-mindedness, and intellectual humility in the pursuit of knowledge.

In contemporary society, the tension between science and dogma remains relevant, particularly in areas such as public policy, education, and the dissemination of scientific information. The quote serves as a reminder of the importance of approaching knowledge with a scrupulous and open-minded attitude, and of the potential dangers of uncritically accepting dogmatic assertions.

In conclusion, George Eliot's quote encapsulates the contrast between the rigorous, self-correcting nature of science and the potential pitfalls of dogmatic belief systems. It highlights the importance of conscientiousness, critical thinking, and ethical responsibility in the pursuit of knowledge. By framing science as a continuous contest with mistake, the quote underscores the dynamic and self-correcting nature of scientific inquiry, standing in contrast to the fixed and potentially error-prone nature of dogmatic beliefs.