You will never stub your toe standing still. The faster you go, the more chance there is of stubbing your toe, but the more chance you have of getting somewhere.
Charles KetteringRead
A research problem is not solved by apparatus; it is solved in a man's head.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A research issue requires intellectual effort and critical thinking rather than just tools.
This quote by Charles Kettering emphasizes the importance of human thought and creativity in solving research problems. It suggests that while tools and equipment can aid in the research process, true understanding and solutions come from the individual's mind and intellectual capability, highlighting the value of critical thinking and innovation in scientific endeavors.
Themes
ResearchThoughtInnovationCreativityProblem-Solving
In practice
Example use cases
In a seminar discussing innovative solutions in science, this quote highlights the importance of creativity.
More from Charles Kettering
All quotes βIt is the 'follow through' that makes the great difference between ultimate success and failure, because it is so easy to stop.
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When I was research head of General Motors and wanted a problem solved, I'd place a table outside the meeting room with a sign: "Leave slide rules here." If I didn't do that, I'd find someone reaching for his slide rule. Then he'd be on his feet saying, "Boss, you can't do it."
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My interest is in the future because I am going to spend the rest of my life there.
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I often say that research is a way of finding out what you are going to do when you can't keep on doing what you are doing now.
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People think of the inventor as a screwball, but no one ever asks the inventor what he thinks of other people.
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