To a synthetic chemist, the complex molecules of nature are as beautiful as any of her other creations. The perception of that beauty depends on the understanding of chemical structures and their transformations, and, as with a treasured work of art, deepens as the subject is studied, perhaps even to a level approaching romance.
Interpretation
The beauty of nature's complex molecules is appreciated through understanding their chemical structures.
Elias James Corey emphasizes that the beauty found in the complex molecules of nature is akin to that found in art, revealing itself through a deep understanding of chemistry. This appreciation not only highlights the intricate designs and transformations of these molecules but also suggests that such beauty may evoke strong emotional responses, comparable to the feelings stirred by art, as one delves deeper into the study of chemistry.
In practice
In a speech about scientific discoveries, this quote could highlight the intersection of science and aesthetics.
To the field of synthetic chemistry belongs an array of responsibilities which are crucial for the future of mankind, not only with regard to the health and needs of our society, but also for the attainment of a deep understanding of matter, chemical change, and life.
Frequently on the lunar surface I said to myself, 'This is the Moon, that is the Earth. I'm really here, I'm really here!'
You stop planetary exploration, those people who do that extraordinary work are going to have to go do something else.
String theory has the potential to show that all of the wondrous happenings in the universe - from the frantic dance of subatomic quarks to the stately waltz of orbiting binary stars; from the primordial fireball of the big bang to the majestic swirl of heavenly galaxies - are reflections of one, grand physical principle, one master equation.
I simply go with what works. And what works is the healthy skepticism embodied in the scientific method. Believe me, if the Bible had ever been shown to be a rich source of scientific answers and enlightenment, we would be mining it daily for cosmic discovery.
I'm not trying to copy Nature, I'm trying to find the principles she's using.
I am a futurist, projecting trends in science into the next decades and century, but ironically my two daughters - one is a neuroscientist and the other is a pastry chef - tell me that my taste in music is positively prehistoric.
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