I came to realize that exaggerated concern about what others are doing can be foolish. It can paralyze effort, and stifle a good idea. One finds that in the history of science almost every problem has been worked out by someone else. This should not discourage anyone from pursuing his own path.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Worrying about others' actions hinders progress; history shows others have solved similar problems, but you should still pursue your own path.
- In plain terms
- Don't let fear of duplication stop you from working on your own ideas.
- What can you take from it?
- Pursue your path regardless of others' work.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Has a problem you're solving been solved before?
Another view
Sometimes checking prior work prevents redundant effort.
More from Theodore von Karman
Mr President, one does not need help going down, only going up.
Permalink to quote #2 Everyone knows it takes a woman nine months to have a baby. But you Americans think if you get nine women pregnant, you can have a baby in a month.
Permalink to quote #3 Scientists study the world as it is; engineers create the world that never has been.
Permalink to quote #4
Related quotes
The pioneer spirit is still vigorous within this nation. Science offers a largely unexplored hinterland for the pioneer who has the tools for his task. The rew…
Vannevar BushVannevar Bush quote #1 A science in its infancy is the least satisfactory, and, at the same time, the most profitable theme for a general description.
Herbert DingleHerbert Dingle quote #1 Basic research is when I'm doing what I don't know I'm doing.
Wernher von BraunWernher von Braun quote #6