John Bardeen
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 transistor effect arises from the modulation of the conductivity of a semiconductor by an external electric field.
The success of the BCS theory demonstrated the power of a microscopic approach to condensed matter physics.
The pursuit of fundamental knowledge often leads to unexpected and profound technological advancements.
The collective behavior of electrons in a solid can lead to emergent properties not present in individual electrons.
The BCS theory is a cornerstone of modern condensed matter physics.
The ability to control the flow of electrons in semiconductors has transformed our world.
The understanding of surface phenomena is critical for device fabrication and performance.
The pairing mechanism in superconductivity is a subtle but powerful quantum effect.
The development of solid-state devices has been a continuous journey of scientific discovery and engineering innovation.
The transistor is a prime example of how fundamental research can lead to revolutionary technologies.
The BCS theory provided a complete and consistent explanation for the observed properties of superconductors.
The pursuit of knowledge for its own sake often yields the greatest practical benefits.
The concept of quasi-particles is essential for understanding the behavior of electrons in solids.
The transistor effect is a manifestation of the quantum mechanical behavior of electrons at interfaces.
The BCS theory demonstrated that a complex macroscopic phenomenon could be understood from microscopic interactions.
The elegance of the BCS theory lies in its simplicity and explanatory power.
The impact of the transistor on society is immeasurable.
The study of condensed matter physics continues to reveal new and exciting phenomena.
The development of the transistor was a collaborative effort involving many talented individuals.
The BCS theory provided a solid theoretical foundation for the field of superconductivity.
Contemporaries of John Bardeen
Other Physicss born within 50 years of John Bardeen (1908–1991).