Meaning: The quote "To overturn orthodoxy is no easier in science than in philosophy, religion, economics, or any of the other disciplines through which we try to comprehend the world and the society in which we live" by Ruth Hubbard, a scientist, highlights the difficulty and resistance involved in challenging established beliefs and traditional thinking across various fields of study. This thought-provoking statement encapsulates the pervasive nature of orthodoxy and the formidable task of challenging it in the pursuit of progress and understanding.

In the context of science, overturning orthodoxy refers to the process of challenging existing scientific principles, theories, or paradigms that have long been accepted as true or valid. This can be an arduous endeavor, as scientific orthodoxy is often deeply entrenched within academic, institutional, and societal frameworks. The resistance to change in scientific orthodoxy can stem from factors such as vested interests, institutional inertia, and the fear of disrupting established paradigms.

Similarly, the quote emphasizes that the challenge of overturning orthodoxy is not unique to science but extends to disciplines such as philosophy, religion, and economics. In philosophy, for instance, established schools of thought and philosophical frameworks can exert a strong influence, making it challenging to introduce new or unconventional ideas. In religion, deeply held beliefs and traditions can create significant barriers to questioning or challenging orthodoxy. In economics, entrenched theories and models can shape policy decisions and academic discourse, making it difficult to introduce alternative perspectives.

The quote also alludes to the broader societal implications of overturning orthodoxy. It acknowledges that our understanding of the world and society is deeply intertwined with the orthodoxies that shape our thinking across various disciplines. Challenging orthodoxy in any of these disciplines can, therefore, have profound implications for how we comprehend and navigate the complexities of the world and society.

Ruth Hubbard, the scientist behind this quote, was a prominent biologist and feminist scholar who made significant contributions to the fields of genetics and bioethics. Her work often focused on challenging traditional scientific and societal norms, particularly in relation to gender and the social implications of scientific research. It is within this context that her quote resonates, as it reflects her broader efforts to question established orthodoxies in science and beyond.

In summary, Ruth Hubbard's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the formidable challenges involved in challenging established beliefs and traditional thinking across various disciplines. It prompts us to critically examine the pervasive nature of orthodoxy and the profound impact it has on our understanding of the world and society. By acknowledging the difficulty of overturning orthodoxy, Hubbard's quote encourages us to approach the pursuit of knowledge and progress with a healthy skepticism and a willingness to question established norms.