“It is not what the man of science believes that distinguishes him, but how and why he believes it.”
— Bertrand Russell
Simplified Meaning:
Scientists stand out not because of their particular views or beliefs, but because of the way they reach those beliefs and the reasons behind them. For instance, if a scientist believes that exercise is good for health, it's not just an opinion he randomly holds. He arrives at this belief through careful observation, experimentation, and evidence. In contrast, someone who isn't a scientist might believe the same thing just because they heard it from a friend or read it in a magazine. The scientist's belief is backed by research and facts, while the other person's belief is based on secondary information. This careful and methodical approach helps ensure that scientific beliefs are reliable and sound. You can apply this to everyday life by not just accepting things at face value, but taking the time to understand the reasons and evidence behind them. This helps make your beliefs and decisions stronger and more informed. For example, before deciding which diet is the best, you could look into scientific studies and understand why some diets work better than others, instead of just following a popular trend.