Franz Boas Quotes

The scientist only imposes two things, namely truth and sincerity, imposes them upon himself and upon other scientists.

My personal conviction is that science is concerned wholly with truth, not with ethics.

I always felt that a scientist owes the world only one thing, and that is the truth as he sees it. If the truth contradicts deeply held beliefs, that is too bad. Tact and diplomacy are fine in international relations, in politics, perhaps even in business; in science only one thing matters, and that is the facts.

The reader deserves an honest opinion. If he doesn't deserve it, give it to him anyhow.

I learned one thing in Watergate: I was well-intentioned but rationalized illegal behavior. You cannot live your life other than walking in the truth. Your means are as important as your ends.

Fudging the data in any way whatsoever is quite literally a sin against the holy ghost of science. I'm not religious, but I put it that way because I feel so strongly. It's the one thing you do not ever do. You've got to have standards.

Truth is life's most precious commodity.

The truth is more important than the facts

I feel a responsibility for telling the truth.

I tell the truth. That's my training as a reporter.

The only responsible way to write about anything is with honesty.

I try to be as realistic as possible.

Whatever your secret, live your own truth; life is too short.

You should not honor men more than truth.

You will survive anything if you live your life from the point of view of truth.

Honesty is a very expensive gift, Don't expect it from cheap people.

You should not fool the laymen when you're talking as a scientist... . I'm talking about a specific, extra type of integrity that is not lying, but bending over backwards to show how you're maybe wrong, [an integrity] that you ought to have when acting as a scientist. And this is our responsibility as scientists, certainly to other scientists, and I think to laymen.

Where is there dignity unless there is honesty?

Objectivity is very hard to achieve. It needs some research and patience. If you want to do something honest, you have to explore it a little longer.

The writer must not invent. The legend on the license must read: NONE OF THIS WAS MADE UP.

Liberty is the parent of truth, but truth and decency are sometimes at variance. All men and all propositions are to be treated here as they deserve, and there are many who have no claim either to respect or decency.

One of the drawbacks to life is that it contains moments when one is compelled to tell the truth.

A litterateur is not a confectioner, not a dealer in cosmetics, not an entertainer. . . . He is just like an ordinary reporter. What would you say if a newspaper reporter, because of his fastidiousness or from a wish to give pleasure to his readers, were to describe only honest mayors, high-minded ladies, and virtuous railroad contractors.

Say whatever your memory suggests is true; but add nothing and exaggerate nothing.

Knowledge is a matter of science and no dishonesty or conceit whatsoever is permissible. What is required is definitely the reverse - honesty and modesty.