Skip to content

It is easy to predict that some of the discoveries of…

“It is easy to predict that some of the discoveries of research directed towards Grand Challenges - but only the most unexpected ones, and at the most unexpected times - will be the basis of revolutionary improvements in the way that we exploit the power of our future computing devices.” quote by Tony Hoare
Download Open image
“It is easy to predict that some of the discoveries of research directed towards Grand Challenges - but only the most unexpected ones, and at the most unexpected times - will be the basis of revolutionary improvements in the way that we exploit the power of our future computing devices.”

Tony Hoare

About This Quote

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

Research aimed at big societal problems often yields surprising, transformative technologies, especially when unexpected discoveries arise.

In simple terms: Big challenges lead to unexpected breakthroughs.

Key Takeaway

Embrace uncertainty in research directions.

Themes

innovation grand challenges unexpected outcomes

Mood

inspirational forward‑looking

Type

strategic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • R&D planning
  • strategic investment
  • future tech development

Key Concepts

research methodology technology evolution ser computing

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance directed research with openness to serendipity?
  • What mechanisms support unexpected breakthroughs?
A Different Perspective

Unexpected results can be hard to predict or fund.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Tony Hoare

Explore all 22 Tony Hoare quotes

More Basis quotes

Browse all 352 Basis quotes