It doesn't matter how new an idea is: what matters is how new it becomes.

It doesn't matter how new an idea is: what matters is how new it becomes.

Theory provides the maps that turn an uncoordinated set of experiments or computer simulations into a cumulative exploration.

Theory provides the maps that turn an uncoordinated set of experiments or computer simulations into a cumulative exploration.

...there is no prescribed route to follow to arrive at a new idea. You have to make the intuitive leap. read more

...there is no prescribed route to follow to arrive at a new idea. You have to make the intuitive leap. But the difference is that once you've made the intuitive leap you have to justify it by filling in the intermediate steps. In my case, it often happens that I have an idea, but then I try to fill in the intermediate steps and find that they don't work, so I have to give it up.

In science, "fact" can only mean "confirmed to such a degree that it would be perverse to withhold provisional assent." read more

In science, "fact" can only mean "confirmed to such a degree that it would be perverse to withhold provisional assent." I suppose that apples might start to rise tomorrow, but the possibility does not merit equal time in physics classrooms.

Science is what you know, philosophy is what you don't know.

Science is what you know, philosophy is what you don't know.

Research is the process of going up alleys to see if they are blind.

Research is the process of going up alleys to see if they are blind.

If you can't beat your computer at chess, try kickboxing.

If you can't beat your computer at chess, try kickboxing.

Not even computers will replace committees, because committees buy computers.

Not even computers will replace committees, because committees buy computers.

There is no adequate defense, except stupidity, against the impact of a new idea.

There is no adequate defense, except stupidity, against the impact of a new idea.