"If an elderly but distinguished scientist says that something is possible, he is almost certainly right; but if he says that it is impossible, he is very probably wrong"
- Arthur C. Clarke
About this Quote
This quote by Arthur C. Clarke talks to the significance of appreciating the understanding and experience of those who have actually come before us. It suggests that when a senior and recognized scientist makes a statement about the possibility of something, we ought to take their word for it. This is since they have most likely invested a life time studying and researching the topic, and their opinion should be respected. On the other hand, if they mention that something is impossible, we need to be more skeptical. This is due to the fact that they might not have the same level of knowledge or experience in the location, and their viewpoint might not be as trusted. Ultimately, this quote motivates us to be mindful of the viewpoints of those who have come before us, and to be available to the possibility that they may be incorrect.
"What is real is not the external form, but the essence of things... it is impossible for anyone to express anything essentially real by imitating its exterior surface"
"The major difference between a thing that might go wrong and a thing that cannot possibly go wrong is that when a thing that cannot possibly go wrong goes wrong it usually turns out to be impossible to get at and repair"
