7 Quotes & Sayings By Max Born

Max Born is a German physicist and mathematician, best known for his contributions to quantum mechanics, including the Born rule and the statistical interpretation of the wavefunction. He was a pioneer in quantum mechanics, being one of the first to apply it to molecules and atoms. In particular, he formulated the "Born approximation", still widely used in atomic physics. Born also made important contributions to statistical mechanics, and in particular to the statistical interpretation of thermodynamic systems Read more

He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1954.

1
I believe that ideas such as absolute certitude, absolute exactness, final truth, etc. are figments of the imagination which should not be admissible in any field of science... This loosening of thinking seems to me to be the greatest blessing which modern science has given to us. For the belief in a single truth and in being the possessor thereof is the root cause of all evil in the world. Max Born
There are two objectionable types of believers: those who believe...
2
There are two objectionable types of believers: those who believe the incredible, and those who believe that 'belief' must be discarded and replaced by 'the scientific method'. Max Born
3
But in practical affairs, particularly in politics, men are needed who combine human experience and interest in human relations with a knowledge of science and technology. Max Born
4
I have tried to read philosophers of all ages and have found many illuminating ideas but no steady progress toward deeper knowledge and understanding. Science, however, gives me the feeling of steady progress: I am convinced that theoretical physics is actual philosophy. It has revolutionized fundamental concepts, e.g., about space and time (relativity), about causality (quantum theory), and about substance and matter (atomistics), and it has taught us new methods of thinking (complementarity) which are applicable far beyond physics. Max Born
5
We, the atom and I, have been on friendly terms, until recently. I saw in it the key to the deepest secrets of Nature, and it revealed to me the greatness of creation and the Creator. Max Born
6
We have sought for firm ground and found none. The deeper we penetrate, the more restless becomes the universe; all is rushing about and vibrating in a wild dance. Max Born