Michael Polanyi

Chemistry Hungarian-British 1891 – 1976 416 quotes

Pioneer in reaction kinetics and philosophy of science

Quotes by Michael Polanyi

The scientist is not a detached observer, but an engaged participant in the world.

Personal Knowledge: Towards a Post-Critical Philosophy 1958

The tacit dimension of knowledge is the foundation of all explicit knowledge.

The Tacit Dimension 1966

The act of knowing is a skillful performance.

The Tacit Dimension 1966

The scientist's commitment to truth is a moral imperative.

The Republic of Science: Its Political and Economic Theory 1962

The pursuit of knowledge is a personal journey.

Personal Knowledge: Towards a Post-Critical Philosophy 1958

The scientific community is a self-governing republic.

The Republic of Science: Its Political and Economic Theory 1962

The freedom of inquiry is the lifeblood of science.

The Republic of Science: Its Political and Economic Theory 1962

The scientist's responsibility is to pursue truth, not to serve power.

The Republic of Science: Its Political and Economic Theory 1962

The tacit dimension is the ultimate ground of all meaning.

The Tacit Dimension 1966

The act of understanding is a creative act.

Personal Knowledge: Towards a Post-Critical Philosophy 1958

The scientist's personal knowledge is an essential part of scientific discovery.

Personal Knowledge: Towards a Post-Critical Philosophy 1958

The pursuit of science is a human endeavor, full of passion and commitment.

Personal Knowledge: Towards a Post-Critical Philosophy 1958

The scientific community is a network of trust and mutual respect.

The Republic of Science: Its Political and Economic Theory 1962

The freedom of thought is the foundation of all other freedoms.

The Republic of Science: Its Political and Economic Theory 1962

The tacit dimension is the source of all originality and creativity.

The Tacit Dimension 1966

The act of learning is a process of personal transformation.

Personal Knowledge: Towards a Post-Critical Philosophy 1958

The scientist's commitment to truth is a moral and intellectual virtue.

The Republic of Science: Its Political and Economic Theory 1962

The pursuit of knowledge is a never-ending quest.

Personal Knowledge: Towards a Post-Critical Philosophy 1958

The scientific enterprise is a collective endeavor, built on individual contributions.

The Republic of Science: Its Political and Economic Theory 1962

The freedom to err is essential for scientific progress.

The Republic of Science: Its Political and Economic Theory 1962