"Science is the great antidote to the poison of enthusiasm and superstition"

Adam Smith's quote speaks to the power of science to counter the effects of interest and superstition. He thought that science was the best way to combat the illogical beliefs and unfounded enthusiasms that can cause harmful and misguided choices. He argued that science was the only way to really understand the world and make choices based upon truths and proof. He believed that science was the only method to make certain that decisions were based upon factor and reasoning, rather than on emotion and superstitious notion. He argued that science was the only way to ensure that decisions were made in the very best interests of society, instead of in the interests of a couple of people. By depending on science, Smith argued, we can make certain that our decisions are based on facts and proof, instead of on unfounded beliefs and enthusiasms.