I feel very strongly indeed that a Cambridge education for our scientists should include some contact with the humanistic side. The gift of expression is important to them as scientists; the best research is wasted when it is extremely difficult to discover what it is all about ... It is even more important when scientists are called upon to play their part in the world of affairs, as is happening to an increasing extent.
Interpretation
A well-rounded education for scientists should combine technical skills with humanistic understanding.
William Lawrence Bragg emphasizes the importance of integrating humanistic elements into the education of scientists. He argues that while technical knowledge is crucial, the ability to communicate ideas effectively is equally important, especially as scientists increasingly engage in public affairs and policy-making. This perspective highlights the necessity for scientists to bridge the gap between complex research and public comprehension, ensuring that their findings contribute meaningfully to society.
In practice
In a lecture on the importance of interdisciplinary studies, this quote can reinforce the value of merging scientific knowledge with the humanities.
There is nothing obscure about the objectives of educational exchange. Its purpose is to acquaint Americans with the world as it is and to acquaint students and scholars from many lands with America as it is-not as we wish it were or as we might wish foreigners to see it, but exactly as it is-which by my reckoning is an "image" of which no American need be ashamed.
I believe we owe our young an education that captures the exhilarating drama of science.
In many professions, what used to matter most were abilities associated with the left side of the brain: linear, sequential, spreadsheet kind of faculties. Those still matter, but they're not enough.
A nation under a well regulated government, should permit none to remain uninstructed. It is monarchical and aristocratical government only that requires ignorance for its support.
I also feel I'm a positive role model by not putting my education on hold.
In the United States we have concentrated tremendous sums of money on the educational plant, seemingly with the idea that the right number of buildings will turn out the right number of graduates. Yet the teachers who actually instruct the future citizens of our country are more often than not miserably paid. If in the future we find ourselves with a lot of fourth-rate citizens, we have only ourselves to blame.
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