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Arthur Stanley Eddington

67quotes

Full Name and Common Aliases


Arthur Stanley Eddington was born on December 28, 1882, and is often referred to as A.S. Eddington or Sir Arthur Eddington.

Birth and Death Dates


Birth: December 28, 1882
Death: November 22, 1944

Nationality and Profession(s)


Nationality: British
Profession: Astronomer, Mathematician, and Theoretical Physicist

Arthur Stanley Eddington was a renowned British astronomer, mathematician, and theoretical physicist who made significant contributions to our understanding of the universe. His work spanned multiple fields, from astrophysics and relativity to cosmology and philosophy.

Early Life and Background


Eddington was born in Kendal, Westmorland (now part of Cumbria), England, to Quaker parents. He developed a strong interest in mathematics and science at an early age, which was encouraged by his family. Eddington attended Manchester Grammar School and later studied mathematics at Cambridge University's Trinity College, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in 1902.

Major Accomplishments


Eddington's research focused on various aspects of astrophysics and relativity. Some of his notable accomplishments include:

Confirmation of Einstein's Theory of General Relativity: In 1919, Eddington led an expedition to observe the bending of starlight during a solar eclipse, providing crucial evidence for Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity.
 Development of the Mass-Luminosity Relation: Eddington formulated this relation, which describes how the mass and luminosity of stars are connected. This concept is still widely used today in astrophysics.
Work on Quantum Theory: Eddington made significant contributions to quantum theory, including his work on the "Eddington Number," which relates to the energy released by stars.

Notable Works or Actions


Some of Eddington's notable works include:

"The Mathematical Theory of Relativity" (1923): This book provided an introduction to Einstein's theory and its mathematical foundations.
* "The Expanding Universe" (1936): In this work, Eddington discussed the expanding universe model, which was later developed further by other scientists.

Impact and Legacy


Eddington's contributions had a profound impact on our understanding of the universe. He is remembered for his ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to a broad audience, making him an influential figure in popularizing science. His work continues to inspire new generations of scientists and thinkers.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Eddington's quotes and writings are widely quoted due to their insight into the nature of the universe and the human condition. He was known for his philosophical approach to science, which emphasized the importance of considering both empirical evidence and fundamental principles in scientific inquiry. His legacy extends beyond his scientific contributions, as he played a significant role in popularizing science and promoting critical thinking.

Eddington's life and work serve as an inspiration to anyone interested in exploring the mysteries of the universe.

Quotes by Arthur Stanley Eddington

There was a time when we wanted to be told what an electron is. The question was never answered. No familiar conceptions can be woven around the electron; it belongs to the waiting list.
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There was a time when we wanted to be told what an electron is. The question was never answered. No familiar conceptions can be woven around the electron; it belongs to the waiting list.
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We have found that where science has progressed the farthest, the mind has but regained from nature that which the mind put into nature.
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We have found that where science has progressed the farthest, the mind has but regained from nature that which the mind put into nature.
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Our ultimate analysis of space leads us not to a “here” and a “there,” but to an extension such as that which relates “here” and “there.” To put the conclusion rather crudely-space is not a lot of points close together; it is a lot of distances interlocked.
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Our ultimate analysis of space leads us not to a “here” and a “there,” but to an extension such as that which relates “here” and “there.” To put the conclusion rather crudely-space is not a lot of points close together; it is a lot of distances interlocked.
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The quest of the absolute leads into the four-dimensional world.
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The quest of the absolute leads into the four-dimensional world.
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The mathematics is not there till we put it there.
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The mathematics is not there till we put it there.
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I don’t believe any experiment until it is confirmed by theory. I find this is a witty inversion of “conventional” wisdom.
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I don’t believe any experiment until it is confirmed by theory. I find this is a witty inversion of “conventional” wisdom.
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Shuffling is the only thing which Nature cannot undo.
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Shuffling is the only thing which Nature cannot undo.
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Never accept a fact until it has been verified by theory.
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Never accept a fact until it has been verified by theory.
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The helium which we handle must have been put together at some time and some place. We do not argue with the critic who urges that the stars are not hot enough for this process; we tell him to go and find a hotter place.
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The helium which we handle must have been put together at some time and some place. We do not argue with the critic who urges that the stars are not hot enough for this process; we tell him to go and find a hotter place.
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Who will observe the observers?
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Who will observe the observers?
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