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)
I am an optimist, but I am also a realist.
The progress of science depends on the free exchange of ideas.
The most exciting phrase to hear in science, the one that heralds new discoveries, is not 'Eureka!' but 'That's funny...'
One of the most important things in science is to be able to estimate orders of magnitude.
The job of a scientist is to find out how the world works, not to tell people what to do with that knowledge.
The discovery of nuclear fission was a great achievement, but it also brought with it a great responsibility.
I have always been interested in the fundamental questions of physics.
The universe is a strange and wonderful place.
The most important thing is to have a good understanding of the basic principles.
Science is a human endeavor, and it is subject to human error.
The future of humanity depends on our ability to solve the problems we face.
I am not afraid of death, but I am not in a hurry to die.
The most important thing is to be honest with yourself and with others.
The universe is much bigger than we can imagine.
The most important thing is to never give up.
The greatest challenge facing humanity is to learn to live together in peace.
I have always been fascinated by the mysteries of the universe.
The most important thing is to be open to new ideas.
The universe is a vast and complex system.
The most important thing is to be curious.
Contemporaries of Enrico Fermi
Other Physicss born within 50 years of Enrico Fermi (1901–1954).