I don't think that science is complete at all. We don't understand everything, and one can see, within science itself, there are many inconsistencies. We just have to accept that we don't understand.
Charles H. TownesRead
The imposing edifice of science provides a challenging view of what can be achieved by the accumulation of many small efforts in a steady objective and dedicated search for truth.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the power of consistent, small efforts in achieving significant scientific advancements.
Charles H. Townes highlights the importance of perseverance and dedication in the pursuit of scientific truth. He suggests that great achievements in science are often the result of cumulative efforts made over time, underscoring the need for steady commitment and a clear objective in the quest for knowledge.
Themes
ScienceEffortDedicationTruthAchievement
In practice
Example use cases
In a graduation speech to inspire students about the value of persistence in their studies.
More from Charles H. Townes
All quotes βOne of the things my family taught me - I think very important in religion and science - is that you must be ready to stand up for what you think. Decide what you really think is best, and stick with it.
Charles H. TownesRead
I knew I wanted to be a scientist. Which kind of scientist was the question.
Charles H. TownesRead
The development of science is basically a social phenomenon, dependent on hard work and mutual support of many scientists and on the societies in which they live.
Charles H. TownesRead
Science has faith. We make postulates. We can't prove those postulates, but we have faith in them.
Charles H. TownesRead
It was strange, in a way, because there were no ideas involved in the laser that weren't already known by somebody 25 years before lasers were discovered. The ideas were all there; just, nobody put it together.
Charles H. TownesRead
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