Surprised to see Ramón y Cajal argue in 1897 that more researchers should pursue science in a home laboratory while earning primary income through some profession, rather than working in a governmental / university lab.
I wonder how unusual these views were at the time.
Conversation
Replying to
Of course, as with all such advice, the contrary perspective—teaching students, even freshmen, brings clarity to basic research questions—is also famously widespread!
(Passages in previous tweet are from "Advice for a Young Investigator")
2
8
"Advice for a Young Investigator"
2
Replying to
Quote Tweet
One of the first things he says: He thinks he's not particularly smart; that most scientists are not that smart either (Only a tiny minority, by his standards) and what distinguishes them is perseverance and hard work. This seems true.
Show this thread
1
4
Yes, and in fact he thinks slowness-of-thought may be an advantage! An interesting passage:
1
13
Show replies
Replying to
The “physical resources acquired with one’s own meager savings” part has become less and less practical over the years for many forms of scientific research. 😢
Replying to
I’d say this advice is valid for anyone who wants to do serious mind exploration. Separate work work from mind work.
Replying to
What were government/university labs like in 1897 and earlier? Got any pointers? Edison is typically the earliest that Silicon Valley oriented “history of tech” primers go into.