Monday, December 27, 2004

Pasteur on Barren Skepticism

In reference to constant French cynicism regarding Uncle Sam, capitalism, et al, today is the birthday of Louis Pasteur, the French chemist (1822-1895) who said
Do not let yourself be tainted with a barren skepticism.

In the fields of observation chance favors only the prepared mind.

Let me tell you the secret that has led me to my goal. My strength lies solely in my tenacity.
And — remembering that cynicism is not an exclusively French trait in Europe — Sunday was the birthday of Charles Babbage, the English mathematician and inventor (1792-1871) who said
Propose to any Englishman any principle or instrument, however admirable, and you will observe that the whole effort of the English mind is directed to find a difficulty, a defect, or an impossibility in it.

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