As an astronomer in the true sense of the term, Sir John Herschel stood before all his contemporaries. Nay, he stood almost alone.
Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Sir John Herschel was an astronomer in the true sense who stood alone among his contemporaries.
- In plain terms
- Herschel was a true astronomer and stood far above others of his time.
- What can you take from it?
- True expertise distinguishes individuals from their peers.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What makes a scientist truly great?
- How do we measure expertise?
Another view
Being alone does not guarantee correctness or value.
More from John Herschel
What is there in Paradise Lost to elevate and astonish like Herschel or Somerville?
Permalink to quote #9 Richard Anthony Proctor, Astronomical Essays (1872), 'Sir John Herschel', p.1
Permalink to quote #11 Self-respect is the cornerstone of all virtue.
Permalink to quote #8
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