"It is that of increasing knowledge of empirical fact, intimately combined with changing interpretations of this body of fact - hence changing general statements about it - and, not least, a changing a structure of the theoretical system"
- Talcott Parsons
About this Quote
This quote by Talcott Parsons speaks to the value of knowledge and understanding of empirical facts, and how this knowledge is continuously changing and evolving. He emphasizes the importance of analyzing empirical truths and how this interpretation can lead to changing basic declarations about them. He also highlights the value of an altering theoretical system, which is necessary to stay up to date with the altering analyses of empirical realities. This quote speaks with the importance of understanding the ever-changing nature of knowledge and how it is constantly evolving. It is important to keep up to date with the current interpretations of empirical facts and to be aware of the changing theoretical system in order to remain informed.
"A lawyer without history or literature is a mechanic, a mere working mason; if he possesses some knowledge of these, he may venture to call himself an architect"