Fermi Said Quote by Richard Rhodes
““So Fermi said, “Well . . . there is the remote possibility that neutrons may be emitted in the fission of uranium and then of course perhaps a chain reaction can be made.” Rabi said, “What do you mean by ‘remote possibility’?” and Fermi said, “Well, ten per cent.” Rabi said, “Ten per cent is not a remote possibility if it means that we may die of it. If I have pneumonia and the doctor tells me that there is a remote possibility that I might die, and it’s ten percent, I get excited about it.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Making of the Atomic Bomb by Richard Rhodes, 1986
Fermi’s estimate of a ten‑percent chance of a chain reaction was dismissed as a “remote possibility,” highlighting differing risk perceptions.
In simple terms: Scientists and laypeople view risk differently.
Key Takeaway
Clarify risk communication.
Themes
science
risk
communication
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
explanatory
informative
When to use this quote
- policy decisions
- public health warnings
- technical debates
Key Concepts
probability
uncertainty
perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you convey uncertainty?
- When is a ten‑percent risk acceptable?
A Different Perspective
Technical jargon can obscure real danger.
