Skip to content

Control Quote by Paul Romer

“When somebody discovers something like the quadratic formula or the Pythagorean theorem, the convention in science is that he can't control that idea. He has to give it away. He publishes it. What's rewarded in science is dissemination of ideas.” quote by Paul Romer
Download Open image
“When somebody discovers something like the quadratic formula or the Pythagorean theorem, the convention in science is that he can't control that idea. He has to give it away. He publishes it. What's rewarded in science is dissemination of ideas.”

Paul Romer

About This Quote

Source Speech: Remarks on Innovation, 2015

Scientific progress relies on sharing discoveries, not hoarding them; dissemination is the true reward.

In simple terms: Science values sharing ideas.

Key Takeaway

Share your findings openly.

Themes

innovation collaboration knowledge sharing

Mood

inspirational thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • research labs
  • academic conferences
  • peer‑reviewed journals
  • industry R&D

Key Concepts

intellectual property open science academic incentives

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance openness with personal recognition?
  • What systems encourage sharing?
A Different Perspective

Open sharing can reduce personal credit and competitive advantage.

3.9 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Paul Romer

Explore all 52 Paul Romer quotes

More Control quotes

Browse all 6,032 Control quotes