Science may eventually explain the world of How. The ultimate world of Why may remain for contemplation, philosophy, religion.

Bailey draws a boundary between explanatory mechanisms and ultimate meaning. “How” stands for the causal, testable accounts science excels at producing—descriptions of processes in nature. “Why” points to questions of purpose, value, and final meaning that may not be resolvable by empirical method alone. The quote reflects a complementary view: scientific inquiry can deepen understanding without exhausting the human need for interpretation, ethics, and metaphysical reflection. It also implies intellectual humility—progress in knowledge does not automatically settle existential questions—leaving room for philosophy and religion as distinct modes of contemplation rather than competitors to science.