James D. Watson: Scientific Wealth
on Tuesday, April 6, 2021James D. Watson Money Quote saying the wealth spent on science should be focused on the top tier of scientists to achieve the greatest inventions and innovation. James D. Watson said:
“Great wealth could make an enormous difference over the next decade if they sensibly support the scientific elite. Just the elite. Because the elite makes most of the progress. You should worry about people who produce really novel inventions, not pedantic hacks” — James D. Watson
Share the James D. Watson Money quote image above on your site:
Short Link to this Quote:
This quote from James D. Watson advocates for directing significant financial resources primarily towards supporting “the scientific elite” – those who have demonstrated exceptional talent and ability to make major breakthroughs and advances in their fields.
While he acknowledges the value of all scientific work, Watson seems to argue that focusing funding on “the elite” who produce “really novel inventions” and truly push boundaries would maximize progress over a shorter time frame. His reference to “pedantic hacks” implies a belief that not all scientists are equally impactful.
Overall, the quote takes the position that “great wealth” would be best utilized by “sensibly” supporting those proven to make the most contributions through original, cutting-edge work, rather than a more general distribution of resources. It promotes an elitist view that prioritizing top scientific minds will most efficiently and effectively further scientific progress and innovation.