Michael Faraday

Electromagnetic induction

Modern influential 67 sayings

Sayings by Michael Faraday

Nothing is too wonderful to be true, if it be consistent with the laws of nature; and in such things as these, experiment is the best test of consistency.

1849 — Letter to John Tyndall, 1849.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The important thing is to know how to take a hint, to seize upon the suggestion, however small, and to extract its full value.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting his approach to scientific discovery.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I am no poet, but if you think for a moment of the energy that is in a single drop of water, you will see a poetry in it.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, demonstrating his imaginative appreciation for nature.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The philosopher should be a man willing to listen to every suggestion, but determined to judge for himself.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, emphasizing independent thought in scientific inquiry.
Strange & Unusual Confirmed

I have in fact been a very lucky fellow; I have often said that I should be a very miserable creature if I could not feel that I was doing something for the good of other people.

1861 — Letter to his niece, 1861.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

Work, finish, publish.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — A personal motto or advice he gave to young scientists.
Strange & Unusual Confirmed

The greatest error is to believe that one knows everything.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, similar to Pasteur, reflecting a universal scientific humility.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I am busy just now again on the old subject of light and experiment, and hope to have some new views to bring out.

1845 — Letter to Christian Schoenbein, 1845.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The history of science is his library.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, emphasizing the importance of historical context for a scientist.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

All this is but a dream, but I hope to make it a reality.

Early 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, possibly in reference to his early ideas about electromagnetism.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I have always tried to make my lectures as clear and simple as possible, so that they may be understood by all.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting his dedication to public science education.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

Magnetic curves are lines of force; they are not only lines of force but lines of action.

1830s-1840s — From his experimental researches, describing his concept of field lines.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The more we know of the laws of nature, the more we are led to believe in the wisdom, intelligence, and design of God.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting his deep religious convictions.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I am a very happy man, and have a good wife, and am very well content.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Letter to a friend, expressing personal contentment.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The human mind is a wonderful thing, and it is capable of doing wonders.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, expressing his admiration for human intellect.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I have been working for some time on the subject of electricity and magnetism, and I think I have made some discoveries.

1820s-1830s — Letter during his active research period.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The book of nature is written in the language of mathematics.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Often attributed to Galileo, but sometimes associated with Faraday's understanding of natural laws.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I have lived to see the day when electricity is no longer a toy, but a powerful agent in the service of mankind.

Late in his career (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting on the impact of his work.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The world is full of things that are wonderful, but we only see them when we are looking for them.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, emphasizing the importance of observation and curiosity.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The very best way to learn is to do.

Mid 19th Century (approx.) — Attributed, reflecting his hands-on approach to science.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable