Philip Morrison

Physicist

Philip Morrison was a prominent physicist known for his work on the Manhattan Project and his advocacy for science communication and curiosity.

Born
November 20, 1915
Died
September 15, 2004
Quotes
6
Rank
#1279

About Philip Morrison

Philip Morrison — Life and Legacy

Philip Morrison was a distinguished physicist whose contributions to science and education left a lasting impact. Best known for his role in the Manhattan Project, he later became a passionate advocate for science communication, emphasizing the importance of curiosity in understanding the universe. His quote, 'the universe is not only queerer than we suppose, but queerer than we can suppose,' reflects his belief in the profound complexities of reality and the limits of human comprehension. This perspective not only highlights his scientific rigor but also his philosophical engagement with the unknown. Morrison's work extended beyond theoretical physics; he was dedicated to making science accessible to the public. He believed that fostering curiosity was essential for both scientific inquiry and societal progress. His assertion that 'the most important thing is to be curious' encapsulates his view that curiosity fuels discovery and innovation. By challenging conventional boundaries, Morrison encouraged a deeper exploration of the natural world, advocating for a science that serves humanity. Today, Morrison's insights continue to resonate, reminding us of the intricate relationship between science and human experience. His legacy is not just in his scientific achievements but in his commitment to inspiring future generations to embrace curiosity and question the world around them.

Quote collection

Philip Morrison quotes

6 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.

Philip Morrison Physicist
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"The probability of success is difficult to estimate; but if we never search the chance of success is zero."

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Philip Morrison Physicist
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"My piece in One World or None was the description of the effect of a single atomic bomb on New York City."

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Philip Morrison Physicist
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"When we were shooting the movie, and of course in the editing room we had to make choices, but the shots fall almost exactly where we thought they would. They're not about content; they're never meant to be about what just happened. There's that weird phenomenon where the more you like a movie the more your mind wanders and goes all over the place."

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Philip Morrison Physicist
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"I have this self-conscious inclination to just say "anyone who hates it, that's cool that's fine!""

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Philip Morrison Physicist
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"One thing I definitely experienced up here (New York), that maybe I have to sort of cop to feeling defensive about, is since the election, people in my cohort, who are sensitive to portrayals of people in the movie as classist, have had no problem coming up with those sorts of [middle-American] stereotypes about a phantom real person they can blame for re-electing George Bush."

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Philip Morrison Physicist
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"...genuine trust implies the opportunity, of checking wherever it may be wanted... That is why it is the evidence, the experience itself and the argument that gives it Order, that we need to share with one another, and not just the unsupported final Claim."

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