Portrait of Michael Faraday

Michael Faraday

Electromagnetic induction

Modern influential 67 sayings

Sayings by Michael Faraday

Nothing is too wonderful to be true, if it be consistent with the laws of nature; and in such things as these, experiment is the best test of consistency.

1849 — Letter to John Tyndall, 1849.
Educational Unverifiable

The important thing is to know how to take a hint, to seize upon the suggestion, however small, and to extract its full value.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting his approach to scientific discovery.
Wisdom Unverifiable

I am no poet, but if you think for a moment of the energy that is in a single drop of water, you will see a poetry in it.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, demonstrating his imaginative appreciation for nature.
Art & Creativity Unverifiable

The philosopher should be a man willing to listen to every suggestion, but determined to judge for himself.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, emphasizing independent thought in scientific inquiry.
Justice & Rights Confirmed

I have in fact been a very lucky fellow; I have often said that I should be a very miserable creature if I could not feel that I was doing something for the good of other people.

1861 — Letter to his niece, 1861.
Art & Creativity Unverifiable

Work, finish, publish.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — A personal motto or advice he gave to young scientists.
Wisdom Confirmed

The greatest error is to believe that one knows everything.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, similar to Pasteur, reflecting a universal scientific humility.
Inspirational Unverifiable

I am busy just now again on the old subject of light and experiment, and hope to have some new views to bring out.

1845 — Letter to Christian Schoenbein, 1845.
Educational Unverifiable

The history of science is his library.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, emphasizing the importance of historical context for a scientist.
Educational Unverifiable

All this is but a dream, but I hope to make it a reality.

Early 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, possibly in reference to his early ideas about electromagnetism.
Inspirational Unverifiable

I have always tried to make my lectures as clear and simple as possible, so that they may be understood by all.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting his dedication to public science education.
Inspirational Unverifiable

Magnetic curves are lines of force; they are not only lines of force but lines of action.

1830s-1840s — From his experimental researches, describing his concept of field lines.
Wisdom Unverifiable

The more we know of the laws of nature, the more we are led to believe in the wisdom, intelligence, and design of God.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting his deep religious convictions.
Biblical Unverifiable

I am a very happy man, and have a good wife, and am very well content.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Letter to a friend, expressing personal contentment.
Love & Relationships Unverifiable

The human mind is a wonderful thing, and it is capable of doing wonders.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, expressing his admiration for human intellect.
Wisdom Unverifiable

I have been working for some time on the subject of electricity and magnetism, and I think I have made some discoveries.

1820s-1830s — Letter during his active research period.
Educational Unverifiable

The book of nature is written in the language of mathematics.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Often attributed to Galileo, but sometimes associated with Faraday's understanding of natural laws.
Educational Unverifiable

I have lived to see the day when electricity is no longer a toy, but a powerful agent in the service of mankind.

Late in his career (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting on the impact of his work.
Power & Leadership Unverifiable

The world is full of things that are wonderful, but we only see them when we are looking for them.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, emphasizing the importance of observation and curiosity.
Power & Leadership Unverifiable

The very best way to learn is to do.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting his hands-on approach to science.
Educational Unverifiable
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