An example of an analogy in a scientist's writing:
"…we [sic, I] believe that by abandoning the ethereal realm of philosophical principles and abstract methods we can descend to the solid ground of experimental science, as well as to the sphere of ethical considerations involved in the process of inquiry."
Santiago Ramón y Cajal (1999). Advice for a Young Investigator. The MIT Press. (Translation of 4th Spanish Edition, 1916)
At one time it was believed that the heavens were made of an element (aether or ether) quite different from the elements found on earth (then usually considered to be earth, water, air and fire). The heavens were considered perfect, and the earth debased (by human sin) – but Cajal, writing centuries after this model was abandoned, is using the illusion intending more a contrast between what is practical/useful and 'down to earth' rather than not being 'grounded'.
Read examples of scientific analogies
Many examples of science analogies are listed in 'Creative comparisons: Making science familiar through language. An illustrative catalogue of figurative comparisons and analogies for science concepts'. Free Download.
Read about the ideas of the ether
