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 humanity is to protect our planet.
I have always sought to push the boundaries of knowledge.
The most important thing is to be authentic.
The universe is a testament to the laws of physics.
The most important thing is to be compassionate.
The greatest challenge for science is to unify our understanding of the universe.
I have always believed in the power of collaboration.
The most important thing is to be resilient.
The universe is a grand experiment.
The most important thing is to be forgiving.
The greatest responsibility of a scientist is to educate the public.
I have always been a pragmatist.
The most important thing is to be adaptable.
The universe is a source of inspiration.
The most important thing is to be kind to yourself.
The greatest power of science is its ability to solve problems.
I have always valued intellectual honesty.
The most important thing is to be open-minded.
The universe is a place of constant change.
The most important thing is to be present in the moment.
Contemporaries of Enrico Fermi
Other Physicss born within 50 years of Enrico Fermi (1901–1954).