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The only proven method to advance pure science is to pick men of genius, back them heavily, and leave them to direct themselves.
Conant argues that scientific progress comes from identifying brilliant individuals, funding them generously, and granting them autonomy rather than directing their work. ✦ AI generated
James Bryant Conant · The Generalist · 2026-07-10 · original ↗
There is only one proved method of assisting the advancement of pure science — that of picking men of genius, backing them heavily, and leaving them to direct themselves.
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- ·Only one proved method advances pure science
- ·Pick men of genius as the starting point
- ·Back them heavily with resources
- ·Leave them to direct themselves
- ·Step 1: Identify brilliant individuals
- ·Step 2: Fund generously, no strings attached
- ·Step 3: Grant full autonomy over direction
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