Paul Dirac
Predicted antimatter and formulated Dirac equation
Most quoted
"The underlying physical laws necessary for the mathematical theory of a large part of physics and the whole of chemistry are thus completely known, and the difficulty is only that the exact application of these laws leads to equations much too complicated to be soluble. It is the purpose of theoretical physics to show that it is possible to derive, from these equations, the properties of the actual world."
— from Proceedings of the Royal Society, 1929
"The methods of progress in theoretical physics have undergone a vast change during the present century. The classical tradition has been to consider the world to be an association of observable objects (particles, fluids, fields, etc.) moving about according to definite laws of force, so that one could form a mental picture in space and time of the whole scheme."
— from Quantised Singularities in the Electromagnetic Field, 1931
"The most powerful method of advance that can be suggested at present is to employ all the resources of pure mathematics in attempts to perfect and generalise the mathematical formalism that forms the existing basis of theoretical physics, and after each success in this direction, to try to interpret the new mathematical features in terms of physical entities."
— from Quantised Singularities in the Electromagnetic Field, 1931
All quotes by Paul Dirac (692)
Interview: Dirac was known for his taciturnity; he spoke only when necessary.
In a speech: Theoretical physics has advanced greatly since Maxwell.
Personal note: I find solace in the order of mathematics.
On politics: Science should be free from political interference.
Witty comeback to a question: That's an interesting question; I'll think about it.
Observation: The speed of light is constant, a profound fact.
Reflection: Aging brings perspective on one's contributions.
From correspondence with Heisenberg: Your matrix mechanics is equivalent to wave mechanics.
Aphorism: Simplicity is the hallmark of truth in physics.
In an interview: I never dreamed of fame; only of understanding.
Key passage: The quantization of energy levels leads to discrete spectra.
Joke: Why is Dirac silent? He's conserving energy.
On art: Abstract art mirrors abstract physics.
Deathbed reflection: The equations were beautiful to the end.
Professional: Collaboration with Wigner on symmetry.
Personal: Marriage to Marga brought joy and stability.
From speech: The future of physics lies in unification.
Aphorism: Doubt your calculations, trust your intuition if beautiful.
Letter excerpt: Dear Schrödinger, your wave equation is elegant.
Interview quote: I believe in the rationality of the universe.
Contemporaries of Paul Dirac
Other Physicss born within 50 years of Paul Dirac (1902–1984).