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I would write a scientific paper with the devil, if it was…

“I would write a scientific paper with the devil, if it was on high temperatures. The fellow's probably an authority.” quote by Henry B. Eyring
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“I would write a scientific paper with the devil, if it was on high temperatures. The fellow's probably an authority.”

Henry B. Eyring

About This Quote

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

The speaker humorously suggests collaborating with a powerful but dangerous entity (the devil) only if the topic is something he respects—high temperatures—implying respect for expertise regardless of source.

In simple terms: Even a feared figure can be useful if the subject is his strength.

Key Takeaway

Seek expertise even from unlikely sources.

Themes

humor expertise ethics

Mood

playful thought‑provoking

Type

aphilosophical humorous

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • scientific publishing
  • risk assessment

Key Concepts

authority temperature physics collaboration

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it ever acceptable to partner with a morally questionable expert?
  • How do we balance expertise against ethical concerns?
A Different Perspective

The joke downplays moral implications of working with evil.

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