Quote by J. Robert Oppenheimer

In some sort of crude sense, which no vulgarity, no humor, no overstatement can quite extinguish, the physicists have known sin and this is a knowledge which they cannot lose.


In some sort of crude sense, which no vulgarity, no humor, n

Summary

This quote suggests that physicists, through their understanding of the laws of nature, have gained a profound awareness of the consequences of human actions. The mention of sin implies a moral dimension, indicating that physicists have a deeper understanding of the potential harm caused by certain choices, decisions, or manipulations. This knowledge is seen as inherent to their scientific discipline, and once acquired, it becomes an inseparable part of their awareness and cannot be ignored or forgotten. Thus, despite the absence of exaggeration or entertainment, physicists possess a unique perspective on the significance of their knowledge.

By J. Robert Oppenheimer
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