The final outcome cannot be known, either to the originator of a new … — Peter D. Mitchell

The final outcome cannot be known, either to the originator of a new theory, or to his colleagues and critics, who are bent on falsifying it. Thus, the scientific innovator may feel all the more lonely and uncertain.

Peter D. MitchellScientist · British · 1920 – 1992

More from Peter D. Mitchell

Being the boss anywhere is lonely. Being a female boss in a world of mostly men is especially so. — Robert Frost
Forget sex or politics or religion, loneliness is the subject that clears out a room. — Doug Coupland
An artist is always alone - if he is an artist. No, what the artist needs is loneliness. — Henry Miller
Meanwhile, the originator of a theory may have a very lonely time, especially if his colleagues find his views of nature unfamiliar, and difficult to appreciate. — Peter D. Mitchell
Moreover, in the experimental sciences, the scientific fraternity must test a new theory to destruction, if possible. — Peter D. Mitchell
Reason can be used only when looking critically back. — Peter D. Mitchell