Fifth principle
Inquiry that respects evidence, admits uncertainty and stays open to correction.
Different kinds of claim
“I experienced,” “I believe,” “I was taught” and “I have evidence” describe different relationships to knowledge. We should not pretend they are interchangeable.
The courage to revise
A commitment to truth includes the possibility that cherished interpretations may need examination. To change one’s mind in response to new evidence need not be viewed as disloyalty.
A scholarly culture
The Nation’s Library will distinguish adopted foundational texts, authored works, research and exploratory essays so readers can understand what kind of material they are encountering.
