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 must use nuclear energy wisely and responsibly, for the benefit of all humanity.
The beauty of science lies in its ability to reveal the hidden wonders of the universe.
It is important to encourage young women to pursue careers in science.
The scientific community must work together to solve the great challenges facing humanity.
I believe that science can be a force for good in the world.
The discovery of the neutron was a crucial step in understanding the structure of the atom.
We must never be complacent in our scientific endeavors; there is always more to learn.
My parents instilled in me a deep love of science and a commitment to research.
The pursuit of knowledge is a universal human endeavor.
The applications of artificial radioactivity are vast and varied, from medicine to industry.
We must ensure that scientific progress benefits all of humanity, not just a select few.
The most exciting moments in science are when you discover something completely new and unexpected.
The scientific method is a rigorous process of observation, experimentation, and analysis.
It is important to foster a spirit of collaboration and open-mindedness in scientific research.
My work has always been driven by a desire to understand the fundamental laws of nature.
The discovery of the positron was another important step in understanding elementary particles.
Science has the power to transform the world for the better.
I am proud to have contributed to the legacy of my parents in the field of radioactivity.
The pursuit of scientific knowledge requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to challenge assumptions.
We must educate the public about the benefits and risks of nuclear technology.
Contemporaries of Irène Joliot-Curie
Other Chemistrys born within 50 years of Irène Joliot-Curie (1897–1956).