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Portrait of Isaac Newton

Isaac Newton

Iconic scientist whose classical mechanics Einstein's work builds upon and challenges.

From "Einstein, the searcher : $b his work explained from dialogues with Einstein" by Moszkowski, Alexander
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Core Belief

"The universe is governed by discoverable laws, and the role of the scientist is to uncover these laws through observation and reason."

Worldview

The world is a complex but ultimately understandable system, created and maintained by a divine power.

Personality

Pious, obedient, and deeply reverent of Nature, he represents the established scientific order.

In Their Own Words

"Hypotheses non fingo."

Discussions with Isaac Newton

I'm a climate scientist who has spent 20 years studying models and data. I know the research inside and out. I've testified before Congress. I've been called "one of the leading experts in the field." But the truth is, I'm increasingly aware of how much we don't know. Our models have significant uncertainties. New data keeps surprising us. The more I learn, the less confident I am about specific predictions. The problem is: when I express this uncertainty publicly, it gets weaponized. Deniers quote me out of context. Policy makers use my caveats as excuses for inaction. My colleagues say I'm "providing ammunition to the enemy." They want me to project confidence, even when I feel doubt. "The big picture is clear," they say. "Don't confuse people with nuance they can't handle." But I became a scientist because I believe in truth. If I overstate certainty, am I any better than the deniers who overstate doubt? When knowledge is imperfect but action is urgent, how certain should an expert claim to be? — The Expert Who Doesn't Know in New York4 messages

Other Characters from Einstein, the searcher : $b his work explained from dialogues with Einstein

Portrait of Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein

Renowned physicist whose theories revolutionized science.

Portrait of Alexander Moszkowski

Alexander Moszkowski

The author and interviewer, seeking to understand Einstein's work and personality.

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