I had an interesting discussion with a world-famous scientist the other day, here at EPFL in Lausanne.
He shared an interesting perspective on doing research which I’d like to pass it onto you, in hope you’ll find it encouraging.
He says he observed two types of scientists throughout his career:
People who “think discovery can be done by thinking” and don’t do a lot of experiments.
They spend a lot of time in their head, thinking why one experiment won’t work or why there is a better alternative, always looking for the “perfect” solution”.
The few experiments that they do, of course fail (because that’s the reality) and they get very disappointed their theories aren’t right quite fast.
People who just simply do a lot of experiments, regardless if anyone says they are not going to work, or have flaws.
Once they make lots of small observations, they start slowly connecting dots, and getting more exciting ideas, allowing them to zoom out and see the bigger picture.
The quote I loved from this conversation:
“You know, my way of doing research is a bit stupid. I don’t like to think too much. To me, it’s like being in complete darkness, searching for something to grab onto.
If you just stand there thinking where to go, you don’t get anywhere.
But if you stumble around like a maniac waving your hands, eventually, you run into something worth holding onto.
Don’t think too much, just do the experiments. “
That’s it, hope this resonates with you as much as it did with me.
Depends on if the subjects are being harmed.