E. P. Wigner quotes

E. P. Wigner was a Hungarian-American theoretical physicist and mathematician, renowned for his work in the foundations of quantum mechanics and symmetry principles. His contributions significantly advanced the understanding of atomic structure and nuclear physics. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for his insights into the structure of the atomic nucleus and elementary particles. Here are 11 of his quotes:

A possible explanation of the physicist's use of mathematics to formulate his laws of nature is that he is a somewhat irresponsible person. As a result, when he finds a connection between two quantities which resembles a connection well-known from mathematics, he will jump at the conclusion that the connection is that discussed in mathematics simply because he does not know of any other similar connection.

E. P. Wigner

The simplicities of natural laws arise through the complexities of the language we use for their expression.

E. P. Wigner

Physics is becoming so unbelievably complex that it is taking longer and longer to train a physicist. It is taking so long, in fact, to train a physicist to the place where he understands the nature of physical problems that he is already too old to solve them.

E. P. Wigner

It is nice to know that the computer understands the problem. But I would like to understand it too.

E. P. Wigner

In science, it is not speed that is the most important. It is the dedication, the commitment, the interest and the will to know something and to understand it - these are the things that come first.

E. P. Wigner

Where in the Schrödinger equation do you put the joy of being alive?

E. P. Wigner

A mind of von Neumann's inexorable logic had to understand and accept much that most of us do not want to accept and do not even wish to understand.

E. P. Wigner

It takes so long to train a physicist to the place where he understands the nature of physical problems that he is already too old to solve them.

E. P. Wigner

A deep sense of humor and an unusual ability for telling stories and jokes endeared Johnny even to casual acquaintances.

E. P. Wigner