What I am referring to is the idea that ultimately the vast majority of the population will only be able to refer to the answers dogmatically because they are unable, even if willing, to be able to take it further.
I don't think educating people in the scientific method will really help as it is the conclusions that are beyond understanding in the vast majority of cases.
If we look at quantum physics even the physicists are saying that if you think you understand it, you don't. Our logic appears to fail completely at this level.
Lets use an example:
Take one of the simplest electric devices - a switch (not a dimmer switch - a simple on/off switch).
Now a switch can be on and it can be off - but not both at the same time.
And yet a quantum switch can be off and on at the same time (http://dwave.wordpress.com/2011/11/25/qu...-switches/)
Obviously even a chimp like me can be educated enough to understand the result - but not the why's and wherefore's of it so I end up taking it on faith and that is the point.
If a swtich that is on and off is beyond me - what chance my understanding the universe as it is explained by Quantum Physics at any level other than being able to repeat, parrot fashion, some of the underlying principles and the result?
I don't think educating people in the scientific method will really help as it is the conclusions that are beyond understanding in the vast majority of cases.
If we look at quantum physics even the physicists are saying that if you think you understand it, you don't. Our logic appears to fail completely at this level.
Lets use an example:
Take one of the simplest electric devices - a switch (not a dimmer switch - a simple on/off switch).
Now a switch can be on and it can be off - but not both at the same time.
And yet a quantum switch can be off and on at the same time (http://dwave.wordpress.com/2011/11/25/qu...-switches/)
Obviously even a chimp like me can be educated enough to understand the result - but not the why's and wherefore's of it so I end up taking it on faith and that is the point.
If a swtich that is on and off is beyond me - what chance my understanding the universe as it is explained by Quantum Physics at any level other than being able to repeat, parrot fashion, some of the underlying principles and the result?
Kuusi palaa, ja on viimeinen kerta kun annan vaimoni laittaa jouluvalot!