“The scientific man does not aim at an immediate result. He does not expect that his advanced ideas will be readily taken up. His work is like that of the planter – for the future. His duty is to lay the foundation for those who are to come, and point the way. He lives and labors and hopes.” – Nikola Tesla
Science is a labor of love. If you expect immediate recognition, fame and wealth then you are not a true scientist. All scientists labor tirelessly for the future of humankind. They provide the seeds that produce fruitful ideas built upon by future enthusiasts of scientific principles. But Nikola Tesla said it so much better than myself. He understood the true labor of love of the scientist – making breakthroughs but often not seeing the true potential of their work before their demise.
Nikola Tesla: Science is the Seed of Hope
I’m Teresa Coppens, science geek, book nerd, educator, coffee lovin’ mom with a coconut aversion. My entire family is crazy about science including my cats! I am passionate about the weird and unusual. Here in my cabinet of science curiosities get your science geek on. Grab a cup of your favorite brew, get comfortable at Science Alcove and learn to love your inner science geek!
Love the quote, and the sentiment. Scientific research and discovery may or may not have an immediate gain, but it always lays the step for the next innovation to build upon.
And sadly, Tesla never succeeded in profiting from his inventions/discoveries.
That is the very reason I thought his quote so fitting yet ironic. Baby steps lead to bigger strides eventually! We are still building on Tesla ‘ s work.
I never knew this before. Hadn’t really thought about it but it makes total sense