Enrico Fermi
Created first nuclear reactor, contributed to quantum theory
Most quoted
"A human being is a part of a whole, called by us universe, a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings as something separated from the rest... a kind of optical delusion of his consciousness. This delusion is a kind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for a few persons nearest to us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty."
— from Attributed
"The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery each day."
— from Attributed
"Before we knew anything about the structure of the nucleus, we knew that it was very small. And we knew that it was very heavy. And we knew that it was very stable. And we knew that it was very energetic. And we knew that it was very mysterious."
— from Attributed
All quotes by Enrico Fermi (565)
The greatest responsibility of a scientist is to contribute to the advancement of knowledge.
I have always been a proponent of open scientific discourse.
The most important thing is to be objective in your interpretations.
The universe is a dynamic and ever-unfolding story.
The most important thing is to be at ease with the unknown.
The greatest power of science is its ability to transform society.
I have always believed in the power of rigorous scientific method.
The most important thing is to be thoughtful in your conclusions.
The universe is a realm of endless possibilities and discoveries.
The most important thing is to be fulfilled in your pursuit of knowledge.
The greatest challenge for humanity is to use science for the betterment of all.
Before I came here I was confused about this subject. Having listened to your lecture I am still confused. But on a higher level.
The development of physics during the last few decades and especially the recent progress in nuclear physics have made it possible to foresee the possibility of producing atomic bombs.
The experiment succeeded eminently. The pile has gone critical.
Whatever Nature has in store for mankind, unpleasant as it may be, men must accept, for ignorance is never better than knowledge.
There are two possible scenarios for the progress of science. One is that everything is finally understood and we know the essential truth. The other is that there are things which will remain beyond our reach forever.
I can calculate the movement of stars, but not the madness of men.
Nuclear physics is the only field where you can make a name for yourself by making mistakes.
The universe is not only stranger than we imagine, it is stranger than we can imagine.
Fasten your seatbelts. It's going to be a bumpy night.
Contemporaries of Enrico Fermi
Other Physicss born within 50 years of Enrico Fermi (1901–1954).