On Sept 15th [1852] Mr Goulburn, Chancellor of the…
![“On Sept 15th [1852] Mr Goulburn, Chancellor of the Exchequer, asked my opinion on the utility of Mr Babbage's calculating machine, and the propriety of spending further sums of money on it. I replied, entering fully into the matter, and giving my opinion that it was worthless.” quote by George Biddell Airy](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/c74/george-biddell-airy-85419_airy_on-sept-15th-1852-mr-goulburn-chancellor_2979582.jpg)
“On Sept 15th [1852] Mr Goulburn, Chancellor of the Exchequer, asked my opinion on the utility of Mr Babbage's calculating machine, and the propriety of spending further sums of money on it. I replied, entering fully into the matter, and giving my opinion that it was worthless.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Airy dismissed Babbage’s machine as useless, reflecting skepticism toward early computing technology.
In simple terms: Early computers were doubted.
Key Takeaway
Stay open to new tech.
Themes
skepticism
technology
innovation
Mood
skeptical
historical
Type
analytical
reflective
When to use this quote
- business strategy
- technology adoption
- policy
- null
Key Concepts
history of computing
innovation management
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we avoid dismissing breakthroughs?
- What biases affect tech evaluation?
A Different Perspective
His view missed future impact.