I’ve been reading “What We Believe but Cannot Prove”, by John Brockman. Its a compilation of short essays by some of the world’s leading thinkers, covering that eponymous topic. One of the best responses comes from Seth Lloyd, professor of Mechanical Engineering at MIT.

I believe in science. Unlike mathematical theorems, scientific results can’t be proved. They can only be tested again and again until only a fool would refuse to believe them.
I cannot prove that electrons exist, but I believe fervently in their existence. And if you don’t believe in them, I have a high voltage cattle prod I’m willing to apply as an argument on their behalf. Electrons speak for themselves.

Technorati Tags: edge, thirdculture