Ever wondered what all goes on in the mind of a scientist, as they geek their lives away in books constantly on the quest of new discoveries? Richard Feynman in the winter of January, 1988 wonders if there is evil associated to science. Phrased differently, what is the value of science?

The Value of Science : Notes

Little by little, capturing the essence of the practice, Feynman explains (and eases my fright) both what it takes to apply science, and how immeasurable impacts shoulder responsibility. [ A little bit of “Cut the scientist a little slack, he’s working on it too”]. Defining scientific knowledge as ‘a body of statements of varying degrees of certainty’ he brings about the everyday dilemma of scientists finding the right balance between possibilities, doubts and uncertainty to still chase their drive of discovering something new. And that’s what he tries to explain. Heavy expectations laid out on their research are only rested by acknowledging that nothing newly discovered comes with an instruction manual. What one does with any new study is a matter of their own personal intent. For, when it comes to a social problem, a scientist is as clueless as anybody else. [During the research phase, you can’t and shouldn’t suck the joy out of a journey of discovery and learning.] The responsibility, of a social nature lies with everybody, building and contributing in better development of universal solutions.

Source: The Value of Science- Richard Feynman