Grace Murray Hopper

Computer Science American 1906 – 1992 302 quotes

A pioneer in computer programming, she developed the first compiler and co-developed COBOL.

Most quoted

"I had a very good friend who said, 'I don't know how you can stand to work with computers, they're so impersonal.' I told her, 'It's the people I work with who are impersonal; the computers are very cooperative.'"

— from Attributed

"We're flooding people with information. We need to feed it through a processor. A human must turn information into intelligence or knowledge. We've tended to forget that no computer will ever ask a new question."

— from Speech, 1982

"In pioneer days they used oxen for heavy pulling, and when one ox couldn't budge a log, they didn't try to grow a larger ox. We shouldn't be trying for bigger computers, but for more systems of computers."

— from Speech, 1981

All quotes by Grace Murray Hopper (302)

The only way to truly understand something is to try it yourself.

Emphasizes hands-on learning and experimentation.

I'm not afraid to fail. Failure is a part of learning.

A common theme in her encouragement of experimentation.

The greatest joy is to create something new.

Reflects her passion for innovation and invention.

I've always been a bit of a dreamer.

A personal reflection on her imaginative and visionary nature.

I'm not interested in looking back. I'm interested in looking forward.

Reinforces her forward-thinking and progressive mindset.

The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.

A motivational quote, often attributed to her or similar figures.

I've always believed in the power of collaboration.

Reflects her understanding of teamwork in complex projects.

I'm not afraid to be different.

A personal statement reflecting her individuality and courage.

I've always been a bit of an optimist.

A personal reflection on her positive outlook.

The greatest adventure is to explore the unknown.

Reflects her spirit of discovery and innovation.

I'm not interested in perfection. I'm interested in progress.

Highlights her focus on continuous improvement rather than unattainable ideals.

The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.

A vivid metaphor for embracing change, often attributed to her.

I've always believed that anything is possible.

Reflects her boundless optimism and belief in human potential.

The future is not a destination, it's a journey.

A philosophical take on the ongoing nature of progress.

I'm not afraid to ask questions.

Reflects her intellectual curiosity and willingness to learn.

The greatest reward is to see your work make a difference.

Highlights her focus on impact and contribution.

The only phrase I've ever heard that is more dangerous than 'We've always done it this way' is 'But the computer said so!'

Various speeches

Go ahead and do it. You can always apologize later.

Various interviews and speeches

We're not going to get anywhere by sitting around and waiting for someone else to do it.

Various speeches

I often say that I'm a bug hunter. I'm always looking for bugs.

Various interviews

Contemporaries of Grace Murray Hopper

Other Computer Sciences born within 50 years of Grace Murray Hopper (1906–1992).