He who seeks for methods without having a definite problem in mind seeks in the most part in vain.
More Quotes from David Hilbert:
Physics is becoming too difficult for the physicists.David Hilbert
I do not want to presuppose anything as known. I see in my explanation in section 1 the definition of the concepts point, straight line and plane, if one adds to these all the axioms of groups i-v as characteristics. If one is looking for other definitions of point, perhaps by means of paraphrase in terms of extensionless, etc., then, of course, I would most decidedly have to oppose such an enterprise. One is then looking for something that can never be found, for there is nothing there, and everything gets lost, becomes confused and vague, and degenerates into a game of hide and seek.
David Hilbert
I have tried to avoid long numerical computations, thereby following Riemann's postulate that proofs should be given through ideas and not voluminous computations.
David Hilbert
The infinite! No other question has ever moved so profoundly the spirit of man.
David Hilbert
If I were to awaken after having slept for a thousand years, my first question would be: Has the Riemann hypothesis been proven?
David Hilbert
Readers Who Like This Quotation Also Like:
Based on Topics: Mind QuotesFailures are finger posts on the road to achievement.
C. S. Lewis
A few hours' ride brought us to the banks of the river Kansas.
Francis Parkman
I have a 10-year track record of writing for the Jewish community.
Anita Diament