more on Planck’s remark

more on Planck’s remark
by doctorzamalek
March 6, 2009

Concerning the earlier post about Planck saying that ideas change only because generations die out, cameron responds again:

“Yes, now that you post it, I too remember that being in Kuhn. I like how the version of it I heard, probably from actual working scientists, back when I used to hang around with people doing primary research in the hard sciences, had been transformed into practical advice ‘. . . just keep applying for grants’.”

My favorite part of Zizek’s The Parallax View (and there are many parts that I like) is when he one-ups the versions of Hamlet put in everyday language by pulling the same move on Hölderlin. “Where the danger is, there too grows the saving power” becomes something like “if you’re ever in trouble, don’t fret, because the answer may be closer than you think. The solution may be just around the corner.”

cameron’s response suggests a similar method of turning old chestnut maxims into immediate practical advice, and trying to disseminate the maxims in their new and expanded forms rather than the old aphoristic ones.

“A penny saved is a penny earned, so try borrowing books from your public library rather than buying the ones you want to read.”

“Revenge is a dish best served cold, so wait at least 4 months before retaliating against any slight.”

Or something a bit more expanded:

“Academic politics are so brutal precisely because there is absolutely nothing at stake, so skip Department meetings if possible, don’t get involved in gossip or factions, and try to work a minimum of 3 hours per day on your dissertation until it’s finished. When you finish the 3 hours, reward yourself with a treat: ice cream is a special incentive, and so is a relaxing bubble bath.”