People often ask me why I persisted in doing research on a subject that was so controversial. I frequently respond by telling them that only a few scientists are granted the great fortune to pursue topics that are so new and different that only a small number of people can grasp the meaning of such discoveries initially.
Interpretation
Persistence in controversial research can lead to groundbreaking discoveries despite initial skepticism.
In this quote, Stanley B. Prusiner reflects on the value of perseverance in scientific research, especially when the subjects tackled are controversial or difficult for others to understand. He highlights the privilege that comes with working on novel topics, emphasizing that while the journey may be met with doubt, the potential for significant contributions to knowledge makes it worthwhile.
In practice
In a speech about career choices at a science fair, to inspire students to pursue challenging topics.
While it is quite reasonable for scientists to be skeptical of new ideas that do not fit within the accepted realm of scientific knowledge, the best science often emerges from situations where results carefully obtained do not fit within the accepted paradigms.
When, however, the lay public rallies round an idea that is denounced by distinguished but elderly scientists and supports that idea with great fervor and emotion - the distinguished but elderly scientists are then, after all, probably right.
Even though NASA tries to simulate launch, and we practice in simulators, it's not the same - it's not even close to the same.
As in nature, all is ebb and tide, all is wave motion, so it seems that in all branches of industry, alternating currents - electric wave motion - will have the sway.
No matter how counter-intuitive it may seem, basic research has proven over and over to be the lifeline of practical advances in medicine.
Of course, we would love to know more about the exact moment of Big Bang, but interposing an outside intelligence does nothing to add to that knowledge, as we still know nothing about the creation of that intelligence.
Adding CO2 to the air is like throwing another blanket on the bed.
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