The Usefulness of Useless Knowledge by Abraham Flexner (PDF)

Description

A short, provocative book about why “useless” science often leads to humanity’s greatest technological breakthroughsA forty-year tightening of funding for scientific research has meant that resources are increasingly directed toward applied or practical outcomes, with the intent of creating products of immediate value. In such a scenario, it makes sense to focus on the most identifiable and urgent problems, right? Actually, it doesn’t. In his classic essay “The Usefulness of Useless Knowledge,” Abraham Flexner, the founding director of the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton and the man who helped bring Albert Einstein to the United States, describes a great paradox of scientific research. The search for answers to deep questions, motivated solely by curiosity and without concern for applications, often leads not only to the greatest scientific discoveries but also to the most revolutionary technological breakthroughs. In short, no quantum mechanics, no computer chips.This brief book includes Flexner’s timeless 1939 essay alongside a new companion essay by Robbert Dijkgraaf, the Institute’s current director, in which he shows that Flexner’s defense of the value of “the unobstructed pursuit of useless knowledge” may be even more relevant today than it was in the early twentieth century. Dijkgraaf describes how basic research has led to major transformations in the past century and explains why it is an essential precondition of innovation and the first step in social and cultural change. He makes the case that society can achieve deeper understanding and practical progress today and tomorrow only by truly valuing and substantially funding the curiosity-driven “pursuit of useless knowledge” in both the sciences and the humanities.

User’s Reviews

Reviews from Amazon users which were colected at the time this book was published on the website:

⭐Easy read

⭐There are two essays in this book. The second one is by Flexner and his philosophy for the ultimate, major return from unrestricted research with no apparent prospects for immediate impact. This was the philosophy that he carried to the Institute of Advanced Studies at Princeton, as the founding director. Obvious, those given the privilege of working there were ones of the highest intellect, a point that is assumed but not clearly articulated. The first, introductory essay is about Flexner and his times, and is a very worthwhile introduction to Flexner’s essay.

⭐While not the most engaging of reads for me, it is still of interest for those who wish to be reminded of what intellect can be capable of. From the first page to the last, it was captivating enough for me to remind oneself to continue learning no matter what the circumstances. Another good book to have in your library should you choose it.

⭐A short essay that opens the eyes and minds of those with curious mentalities. Almost a hundred years old and deals with issues occurring at this moment around our world. I just hope that it is read by those who have the brains and will to help save Humanity and our beloved planet.

⭐In an age when the value of science — especially fundamental research — is being attacked daily by politicians, this wonderful short essay is a reminder that this controversy also existed in the 1930’s. The preface by Robbert Dijkgraf is nearly as long as Flexner’s piece, originally published in 1932, but places his ideas in a contemporary context. This would be a wonderful gift for anyone interested in the history of science.

⭐I was expecting a heavier set of arguments but the examples in the book proved enlightening enough. Nice way to pass a bus ride.

⭐Two easy to read essays that provide the rationale for educators and parents to encourage and foster free thinking and creativity in their students and children – the seemingly “useless” knowledge that often leads to the most “useful” discoveries in our communities, society and the world.

⭐Flexner’s 1939 essay is reproduced here with a modern forward by another Princeton heavyweight. Everything Flexner said in the 1930s is equally, if not more, valid today. A short book – you can knock it off in an afternoon but the return on your investment is huge.

⭐Timely reminder of what innovation entails.

⭐This little book with 2 essays are skilfully written about why we should not forget about investing on science which may not have immediate application now but it is an investment for the future generations.

⭐A small book about the joy of learning and studying anything you like without the goal of building a new technology or a new product. It’s a hymn to free our mind and a novel telling us what this spirit can produce.

⭐Highly recommended lecture in this age where applied science is preferentially granted, A very interesting view from the Institute for Advanced Study of Princeton

⭐I strongly recommend everyone to have a copy of this magnificent book.

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