Max Born
Made fundamental contributions to quantum mechanics, particularly the Born rule for calculating probabilities.
Most quoted
"It is natural that a man should consider the work of his hands or his brain to be useful and important. Therefore nobody will object to an ardent experimentalist boasting of his measurements and rather looking down on the 'paper and ink' physics of his theoretical friend, who on his part is proud of his lofty ideas and despises the dirty fingers of the other."
— from Experiment and Theory in Physics, 1943
"The human race has today the means for annihilating itself—either in a fit of complete lunacy, i.e., in a big war, by a brief fit of destruction, or by a careless handling of atomic technology, through a slow process of poisoning and of deterioration in its genetic structure."
— from Letter, 1957
"The human race has today the means for annihilating itself—either in a fit of complete lunacy, i.e., in a big war, by a brief fit of destruction, or by careless handling of atomic technology, through a slow process of poisoning and of deterioration in its genetic structure."
— from Atomic Physics and Human Knowledge, 1957
All quotes by Max Born (371)
The universe is full of wonders, waiting to be discovered.
The fundamental laws of nature are simple and elegant.
The human mind is capable of understanding the most complex phenomena.
The scientific method is the most powerful tool for acquiring knowledge.
The progress of science is a testament to the power of human intellect.
The pursuit of truth is the highest calling of humanity.
The universe is a grand symphony, and we are trying to understand its music.
The most exciting discoveries are yet to come.
The spirit of scientific inquiry is essential for human progress.
Science is a collaborative effort, built on the contributions of many.
The responsibility of the scientist is to use knowledge for the benefit of humanity.
The universe is an open book, and we are learning to read its pages.
The pursuit of knowledge is a noble quest.
The beauty of physics lies in its ability to explain the universe with a few simple laws.
The scientific method is a powerful tool for distinguishing truth from falsehood.
The universe is a complex and fascinating place, and we are only beginning to understand it.
I am convinced that the quantum theory of matter is the greatest scientific achievement of our century.
Physics is not a religion. It is a science, and as such it must be open to doubt and criticism.
The more I learn about the world, the more I am convinced that there is a deeper meaning to it all.
I often feel like a stranger in this world, an outsider looking in.
Contemporaries of Max Born
Other Physicss born within 50 years of Max Born (1882–1970).