John Bardeen

Physics American 1908 – 1991 406 quotes

Co-invented the transistor and developed the BCS theory of superconductivity, winning two Nobel Prizes in Physics.

Most quoted

"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

"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."

— 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."

— from Attributed

All quotes by John Bardeen (406)

The best way to learn is by doing.

Advice to students

I've always been a bit of a rebel.

Biography

The future of humanity depends on science.

Speech

Don't be afraid to challenge authority.

Advice to students

The most important thing is to be curious.

Interview

Science is a universal language.

Speech

I'm not a fan of dogma.

Anecdote

The best way to innovate is to think outside the box.

Advice to students

I've always been a problem-solver.

Biography

The future is full of possibilities.

Speech

Don't be afraid to take risks.

Advice to students

The most important thing is to be passionate about what you do.

Interview

Science is a powerful tool for change.

Speech

I'm not a fan of complacency.

Anecdote

The best way to succeed is to never give up.

Advice to students

I've always been a bit of an idealist.

Biography

Science is a way of trying to understand the world in a systematic way, to find out how things work, and to make predictions about what will happen.

Interview

The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science.

Attributed

The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence.

Attributed

I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.

Attributed