Irène Joliot-Curie
She, along with her husband Frédéric Joliot-Curie, discovered artificial radioactivity.
Most quoted
"We must not forget that when radium was discovered no one knew that it would prove useful in hospitals. The work was one of pure science. And this is a proof that scientific work must not be considered from the point of view of the direct usefulness of it. It must be done for itself, for the beauty of science, and then there is always the chance that a scientific discovery may become like the radium a benefit for humanity."
— from Biography
"We must not forget that when radium was discovered no one knew that it would prove useful in hospitals. The work was one of pure science. And this is a proof that scientific work must not be considered from the point of view of the direct usefulness of it. It must be done for itself, for the beauty of science, and then there is always the chance that a scientific discovery may become like radium, a benefit for humanity."
— from Nobel Lecture, 'Artificial Production of Radioactive Elements', 1935
"Humanity needs practical men, who get the most out of their work, and, without forgetting the general good, safeguard their own interests. But humanity also needs dreamers, for whom the disinterested development of an enterprise is so captivating that it becomes impossible for them to devote their care to their own material profit."
— from Likely derived from Marie Curie
All quotes by Irène Joliot-Curie (405)
We have succeeded in producing a new type of radioactivity, which is not due to the disintegration of an unstable nucleus, but to the formation of a new radioactive element.
The discovery of artificial radioactivity opens up a vast field of research, not only in physics but also in chemistry and biology.
Science is a tool, and like any tool, it can be used for good or for ill. It is up to us to ensure that it is used for the benefit of humanity.
The most important thing in science is not to get ahead of others, but to get ahead of yourself.
My mother taught me that one must be interested in everything, and that one must never be afraid to ask questions.
The future of science depends on the education of young people, and on encouraging them to pursue their curiosity.
It is not enough to discover; one must also understand and explain.
The joy of discovery is the most beautiful gift of science.
We must never forget that science is a human endeavor, and that it is driven by human curiosity and creativity.
The pursuit of knowledge is a noble quest, and it is one that should be open to all, regardless of gender or background.
My father always said that one must work hard, but also enjoy life. I have tried to follow his advice.
The atom is a fascinating world, full of surprises and mysteries.
We are only at the beginning of understanding the full potential of nuclear energy.
The collaboration between scientists from different countries is essential for the advancement of knowledge.
I have always been fascinated by the invisible world of atoms and molecules.
The scientific method is a powerful tool for understanding the natural world.
We must always be open to new ideas and new discoveries, even if they challenge our existing beliefs.
The responsibility of scientists is not only to discover, but also to inform the public about the implications of their work.
My greatest satisfaction comes from knowing that my work has contributed to the advancement of science.
The pursuit of scientific truth is a never-ending journey.
Contemporaries of Irène Joliot-Curie
Other Chemistrys born within 50 years of Irène Joliot-Curie (1897–1956).