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Quote#Science & Reason

The objects of instruction in purely scientific mechanics and physics…

Quote byWilliam John Macquorn Rankine · 1820–1872

Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: "On the Harmony of Theory and Practice in Mechanics" (Jan. 3, 1856).

English (original)

The objects of instruction in purely scientific mechanics and physics are, first, to produce in the student that improvement of the understanding which results from the cultivation of natural knowledge, and that elevation of mind which flows from the contemplation of the order of the universe; and secondly, if possible, to qualify him to become a scientific discoverer.

— William John Macquorn Rankine

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