Its funny how selective quoting is used in debating topics of science. Without doubt it is used in legal argument as previous cases may have established some precedent. Legal debate which leads to ( I think it is called ) Case Law and the basis of most science are similar.
Science builds on the foundations of the past. Facts are facts. Case Law builds on precedent. Previous rulings are the foundations.
Interpretations though change with greater knowledge and understanding. There are many quotes from learned people that they probably wish they had a delete key for .
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Whereas women's cheeks are ever plump and smooth, their voice small, their skin soft, as if they imitated a certain kind of perpetual youth. Again, what greater thing do they wish in their whole lives than that they may please the man? Erasmus
