Mathematics compares the most diverse phenomena and discovers the secret analogies that unite them.
Interpretation
Mathematics reveals connections between seemingly unrelated phenomena.
In this quote, Joseph Fourier emphasizes the power of mathematics as a universal language that enables us to identify and understand underlying similarities among diverse phenomena. It suggests that through mathematical comparison, we can uncover hidden relationships that might not be immediately apparent in different fields or contexts, thereby enhancing our comprehension of the world around us.
In practice
In a lecture about the importance of mathematics in science.
There cannot be a language more universal and more simple, more free from errors and obscurities...more worthy to express the invariable relations of all natural things [than mathematics]. [It interprets] all phenomena by the same language, as if to attest the unity and simplicity of the plan of the universe, and to make still more evident that unchangeable order which presides over all natural causes
Measure what is measurable, and make measurable what is not so.
Geology has shared the fate of other infant sciences, in being for a while considered hostile to revealed religion; so like them, when fully understood, it will be found a potent and consistent auxiliary to it, exalting our conviction of the Power, and Wisdom, and Goodness of the Creator.
This afternoon, I've arranged for this ceremony to be illuminated by solar power.
Medicine is a science of uncertainty and an art of probability.
I called it ignose, not knowing which carbohydrate it was. This name was turned down by my editor. 'God-nose' was not more successful, so in the end 'hexuronic acid' was agreed upon. To-day the substance is called 'ascorbic acid' and I will use this name.
I'm on a crusade to get movie directors to get their science right because, more often than they believe, the science is more extraordinary than anything they can invent.
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