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To what part of electrical science are we not indebted to…

“To what part of electrical science are we not indebted to Faraday? He has increased our knowledge of the hidden and unknown to such an extent, that all subsequent writers are compelled so frequently to mention his name and quote his papers, that the very repetition becomes monotonous. [How]…” quote by Alfred Smee
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“To what part of electrical science are we not indebted to Faraday? He has increased our knowledge of the hidden and unknown to such an extent, that all subsequent writers are compelled so frequently to mention his name and quote his papers, that the very repetition becomes monotonous. [How] humiliating it may be to acknowledge so great a share of successful investigation to one man.”

Alfred Smee

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Faraday's influence is so pervasive that mentioning him becomes repetitive, highlighting the challenge of giving credit without overuse.

In simple terms: Faraday is heavily cited, making references feel stale.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge contributions without overusing names.

Themes

science humility recognition

Mood

reflective academic

Type

historical educational

When to use this quote

  • academic writing
  • lecture introductions
  • research citations
  • educational materials

Key Concepts

electromagnetism historical impact

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance credit with originality?
  • When does repetition become counterproductive?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis can diminish the perceived novelty of later work.

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