Niels Bohr
Pioneer of quantum theory and atomic structure
Most quoted
"The fact that religions through the ages have spoken in images, parables, and paradoxes means simply that there are no other ways of grasping the reality to which they refer. But that does not mean that it is not a genuine reality. And complementarity, by the way, is not a new invention of mine. It is, in fact, as old as language itself. We have to be clear that when it comes to atoms, language can be used only as poetry. The poet, too, is not nearly so concerned with describing facts as with creating images and establishing connections."
— from Interview with Aage Petersen
"The fact that religions through the ages have spoken in images, parables, and paradoxes means simply that there are no other ways of grasping the reality to which they refer. But that does not mean that it is not a genuine reality. And the fact that this reality is not accessible to us in the same way as material reality makes it no less real."
— from Attributed
"The very nature of the quantum theory thus forces us to regard the space-time co-ordination and the claim of causality, the union of which characterizes the classical theories, as complementary but exclusive features of the description, symbolizing the idealization of observation and definition respectively."
— from Atomic Theory and the Description of Nature, 1929
All quotes by Niels Bohr (768)
The greatest adventure is to live a life of purpose, passion, and compassion.
The world is not a problem to be solved, but a dance to be danced with joy and gratitude.
The aim of science is not to explain away mystery, but to embrace it as an integral part of reality.
The universe is not a cold, indifferent machine, but a warm, compassionate, living, and evolving consciousness.
The greatest wisdom is to know that we are all interconnected and interdependent.
The world is not a collection of separate individuals, but a symphony of interconnected souls, all playing their unique part in the grand cosmic dance.
The aim of science is not to control nature, but to honor its profound wisdom and learn from its intricate design.
The universe is not a cold, empty space, but a warm, vibrant, conscious, and infinitely creative force.
The greatest gift is the ability to give and receive love unconditionally.
The world is not a problem to be solved, but a blessing to be shared with all sentient beings.
The aim of science is not to conquer the unknown, but to celebrate its boundless wonder and inspire endless curiosity.
The universe is not a static backdrop, but a dynamic, ever-evolving, and breathtaking masterpiece of existence.
The greatest adventure is to discover the profound beauty and infinite potential within yourself and all around you.
The world is not a stage, but a canvas for our collective dreams, painted with the vibrant colors of hope and possibility.
The aim of science is not to explain away mystery, but to deepen our appreciation for the inexplicable and the miraculous.
The universe is not a cold, indifferent machine, but a warm, compassionate, living, and infinitely wise consciousness.
The greatest wisdom is to live in harmony with all of creation, recognizing our interconnectedness and shared destiny.
The world is not a problem to be solved, but a song to be sung together, in a chorus of unity and understanding.
The aim of science is not to conquer nature, but to become a humble and grateful participant in its grand and intricate design.
The universe is not a cold, empty space, but a vibrant, living, conscious, and infinitely loving presence.
Contemporaries of Niels Bohr
Other Physicss born within 50 years of Niels Bohr (1885–1962).