Special colloquium “Science and Society”: On the Vital Role of Basic Research in Realizing Societies' Dreams and Aspirations: "The Usefulness of Useless Knowledge"
by
Prof.Helmut Schwarz(Technische Universität Berlin)
→
Europe/Berlin
MPI Meeting rooms
MPI Meeting rooms
Description
Most breakthroughs in research are not and could not be planned, and their value and
usefulness for mankind are initially unknown or difficult to access. Rather, they appear, like
Puck in a Shakespeare play, in entirely unexpected corners. Because it is the passion of
individuals that sparks major discoveries or delivers society-serving inventions, choosing
outstanding people and providing intellectual freedom and generous funding are key to the
success of academic institutions. Our safest bet in this gamble is to give our brightest minds
trust, funding and the freedom to dream big. Only then will they have the courage to take the
risks that make discoveries possible.
