Success is 10 percent inspiration; and 90 percent computer efficiency.
I would rather not talk about me but our common inspiration for the research to which we contribute. This includes such great minds as Issac Newton, Albert Einstein, Thomas Edison, Carl Sagan, Gilbert Levin, Mark J. Winter and Roger Angel.
Although each of these individuals are well known for their respective areas of expertise, they all share a common thread in curiosity of spirit that drives their individual motivation for discovery.
Not to suggest that the above named are at perody, but rather to recognize each as a contributor to the big picture of the whole of the research community.
Science, by definition is the study of all things in the universe and methodology for problem solving. Having stated this, we can choose to be interested in all, most or one aspect(s) of our universe.
Studying our surroundings can lead to a specific area of interest. This is what separates the 'geek' from the true science fanatic. One may even explore schools of thought that would lead to a higher education - even a doctorate.
Is this a noble cause or just status (wall-paper certificate)? Can we be considered as true scientists if we focus or specialize in an area of interest even without the schooling credentials? Can a general study of all things lead to greater insight into your area of focus?
I raise these questions only as encouragement each of us to remain in perspective with the 'big picture' while pursuing a specific passion of specialized study. It is our core values that motivate each of us as individuals to do the right things. I just hope we are able to do enough of the right things.
Having said all of this, research and experiments are necessary to further our understanding - even if they are failures. Rare successes help us as a society to move forward ,faster, in our humanitarian, service, responsibility and curiosity attitudes. Our contribution or resources here contributes to the solving of these world scientific models whether the outcome is success or failure.
I leave these thoughts with all of you. I welcome real or abstract comments about this line of thinking.
I consider myself truly blessed to be able to participate in a HUGE project such as this one and pledge to do my part in providing as many of my LINUX machines that have cpu time available to contribute. This of course will vary as I try to keep the technology spiral from getting out of control at my location.
Cheers,
Ian.
TheTinker@Team Carl Sagan
for BOINC (Einstein@home)
PS. Schooling helps to direct the disciplines and habits give a solid foundation for a researcher. I highly recommend this type of grounding and basic preparation.
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