"The invention of a calculating machine was equivalent to an addition theorem, and this has been done."
This quote suggests that creating a calculating machine (computer) is equivalent to proving an addition theorem. In other words, the invention of the computer was like discovering a new mathematical formula for addition. Just as the addition theorem describes how to calculate sums, computers enable us to perform calculations and process information in a systematic and automated manner. The quote implies that both the theorem and the computer provide essential tools for advancing knowledge and solving problems.
"I have tried lately to live up to the motto attributed to Sir Isaac Newton, 'If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.'"
The quote by David J. C. Mackay reflects a common sentiment known as "standing on the shoulders of giants," a metaphor originally used by Isaac Newton. It implies that one can see further or achieve more by building upon the work, knowledge, and ideas of those who came before us - the "giants" in their respective fields. This philosophical idea encourages humility, recognizing the importance of learning from past achievements to propel ourselves forward in our own endeavors. It emphasizes collaboration and the interconnectedness of human knowledge, highlighting that progress is often a collective effort rather than an individual accomplishment.
"The art of computation consists in expressing...the operations which we wish to perform, in such a manner that they can be conveniently performed in our minds."
This quote by David J. C. Mackay emphasizes the importance of representing complex computational tasks in a way that is understandable and manageable by humans. It suggests that the act of computation isn't just about performing calculations mechanically, but also involves expressing those operations in a form that can be easily grasped and executed mentally. This approach allows us to solve problems more effectively, as it leverages human intuition and problem-solving skills alongside computational methods.
"It is a good thing for an author not to have a library; he is forced to fight his way through by his own wits."
David J.C. Mackay's quote suggests that having a well-stocked library can sometimes be detrimental to an author, as it may encourage reliance on others' works rather than fostering originality and independent thought. The lack of a library forces the author to rely on their own intellectual abilities, thereby promoting creativity and self-reliance in their work.
"It is often said that mathematics is the language with which God has written the universe. But it is also true that the universe is not written in Mathematical Language, but rather in the Language of Physics, which is a much less precisely defined language."
Mackay's quote suggests that while mathematics can be seen as a powerful tool for understanding and describing the universe (comparing it to the 'language with which God has written the universe'), it's important to note that the universe is not strictly expressed in mathematical terms. Instead, the language of physics, which is less precise than mathematics, is used to describe phenomena more accurately. In essence, Mackay emphasizes the importance of recognizing the limitations and contextual nature of both mathematics and physics when interpreting the workings of the universe.
I was distressed by the poor quality of the debate surrounding energy. I was also noticing so much green wash from politicians and big business. I was tired of the debate - the extremism, the nimbyism, the hair shirt. We need a constructive conversation about energy, not a Punch and Judy show. I just wanted to try to reboot the whole debate.
- David J. C. MacKay
When the Industrial Revolution started, the amount of carbon sitting underneath Britain in the form of coal was as big as the amount of carbon sitting under Saudi Arabia in the form of oil, and this carbon powered the Industrial Revolution, it put the 'Great' in Great Britain, and led to Britain's temporary world domination.
- David J. C. MacKay
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