Michael Polanyi quotes - page 2

Michael Polanyi was a Hungarian-British polymath renowned for his contributions to physical chemistry, philosophy, and the theory of knowledge. His groundbreaking work explored the limits of scientific objectivity and the role of tacit knowledge in discovery. He significantly influenced both philosophy of science and broader intellectual thought. Here are 32 of his quotes:

Admittedly, the body of scientists, as a whole, does uphold the authority of science over the lay public. It controls thereby also the process by which young men are trained to become members of the scientific profession.

Michael Polanyi

And the actual achievements of biology are explanations in terms of mechanisms founded on physics and chemistry, which is not the same thing as explanations in terms of physics and chemistry.

Michael Polanyi

But even physics cannot be defined from an atomic topography.

Michael Polanyi

But the system of prices ruling the market not only transmits information in the light of which economic agents can mutually adjust their actions, it also provides them with an incentive to exercise economy in terms of money.

Michael Polanyi

My title is intended to suggest that the community of scientists is organized in a way which resembles certain features of a body politic and works according to economic principles similar to those by which the production of material goods is regulated.

Michael Polanyi

The process of philosophic and scientific enlightenment has shaken the stability of beliefs held explicitly as articles of faith.

Michael Polanyi