Louis Pasteur

Germ theory, pasteurization

Modern influential 62 sayings

Sayings by Louis Pasteur

In the fields of observation chance favors only the prepared mind.

1854 — Lecture at the University of Lille, 1854, often quoted in various forms.
Strange & Unusual Confirmed

A bottle of wine contains more philosophy than all the books in the world.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting his work on fermentation and appreciation for wine.
Strange & Unusual Confirmed

I have been for the past three years studying a disease which is called hydrophobia, or rabies. It is a disease which I believe to be caused by a microbe.

1880s — Letter to his son, describing his ongoing research.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

Science knows no country, because knowledge belongs to humanity, and is the torch which illuminates the world. Science is the highest embodiment of the patriotism of nations.

1871 — Inaugural Speech, Academy of Sciences, Paris.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

Life is a germ, and a germ is life. The living organism is the highest, the most complicated, and the most beautiful of all chemical machines.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting his views on vitalism and the nature of life.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

To him who devotes his life to science, nothing can be more important than the study of its history.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, emphasizing the importance of historical context in scientific endeavor.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I am utterly convinced that there is a germ for every disease.

1860s-1870s — Attributed, summarizing his germ theory of disease.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

Happy is the man who has a vocation which he can follow with passion.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting his own dedication to his work.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The scientific method is the only one that allows us to approach the truth.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, underscoring his belief in empirical investigation.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

When I approach a child, he inspires in me two sentiments: tenderness for what he is, and respect for what he may become.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, touching on his broader humanitarian outlook.
Strange & Unusual Confirmed

Do not let yourself be discouraged by the difficulties of research, and do not be afraid of a little suffering, for it is in this way that the truth will be revealed.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, offering encouragement to fellow scientists.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The true character of a man is revealed in his actions, not in his words.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, a general observation on human nature.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

One must make sure that one has good tools, and then one must use them well.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, emphasizing the importance of both resources and skill in scientific work.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

Without laboratories, men of science are soldiers without arms.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, highlighting the necessity of proper facilities for scientific progress.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I am convinced that I have found the cause of fermentation.

1850s-1860s — Letter or statement during his early work on fermentation.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The world is full of wonders, but they are only visible to the eyes that know how to see them.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, suggesting a deeper appreciation for observation.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The greatest discovery of my life has been finding God.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting his strong personal faith.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I only ask of you to look at things as I do.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, possibly in a discussion or debate about his theories.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

There are no such things as applied sciences, only applications of science.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, emphasizing the fundamental unity of scientific knowledge.
Strange & Unusual Confirmed

Let me tell you the secret that has led me to my goal: my strength lies solely in my tenacity.

Late 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, highlighting his perseverance.
Strange & Unusual Confirmed