Chiefs Quote by Robert O. Becker
“Scientific results that aren't reported might as well not exist. They're like the sound of one hand clapping. For scientists, communication isn't only a responsibility, it's our chief pleasure.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Scientific Communication Talk, 2015
Unpublished scientific findings are effectively invisible, similar to a silent hand clap, and sharing them is both duty and joy for researchers.
In simple terms: Unpublished work is like a silent hand clap.
Publish to make work count.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- research presentations
- grant proposals
- journal submissions
- public outreach
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure all results reach the right audience?
- What incentives encourage open reporting?
Even if published, data may be ignored or misinterpreted.