Nobel Minds 2015

Transcript

hello I'm Zab badawi welcome to the concert hall in Stockholm where the Nobel Prize winners received their awards from the king of Sweden for their outstanding contributions to science literature and economics this is the first time that this year's laurates are appearing together on television and they've been joined by their family and friends wh... Read More

Summary

In this video, Nobel Prize winners from various fields discuss the impact of prizes and competitions in motivating people to engage in their respective fields. They also touch on topics such as inequality, foreign aid, cancer research, and the value of basic research. The laureates share their personal experiences and perspectives, providing deep insights into their respective areas of expertise.

Questions & Answers

Q: Do Nobel prizes and competitions in various fields motivate people to engage or do they inspire unnecessary competition?

Nobel laureates express differing opinions on the impact of prizes and competitions. While some believe that they generate positive emotions and well-being, others acknowledge that there can be resentment from those who are not recognized. Overall, they agree that the motivation for engagement comes from personal curiosity and the desire to make important discoveries.

Q: Do Nobel laureates in economics think that fighting inequality is a realistic aim?

The economists argue that fighting inequality is a realistic goal because there are tools available to address it, such as implementing a more progressive tax system and investing in education. However, they also acknowledge the challenges in achieving this goal due to the political power held by those who benefit from inequality.

Q: Why do some Nobel laureates criticize foreign aid to poor countries?

These laureates explain that while they are not against helping people in poor countries, they believe that current aid efforts may not be effective. They argue that providing large sums of money can lead to corruption and hinder the development of responsible governance. They advocate for aid that enables new discoveries and innovations rather than perpetuating dependence.

Q: How do Nobel laureates in medicine and physiology view the importance of basic research in finding new drugs and treatments?

The laureates emphasize the significance of basic research in advancing medical science. They argue that understanding the fundamental laws of physics and biology is crucial for developing new medications and improving treatments. They believe that knowledge gained from basic research is essential for solving complex problems and addressing major challenges in healthcare.

Q: Is it advisable for young students to pursue a career in science?

The laureates encourage students to pursue careers in science, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and perseverance. They note that teachers and mentors can greatly influence the path of young scientists, and they highlight the role of mathematics in many scientific disciplines. They also express the need for more support and recognition for educators.

Q: Does basic research have value beyond increasing our knowledge of the universe?

The laureates argue that basic research has significant value beyond expanding our understanding of the world. They highlight examples such as the application of general relativity in GPS technology and the potential benefits of studying neutrinos for harnessing nuclear fusion. They maintain that knowledge gained from basic research often leads to practical applications and advancements in various fields.

Q: How do Nobel laureates in physics view the role of applied physics and research in fields like astroparticle physics?

The laureates stress the importance of understanding the laws of physics in order to apply them effectively. They discuss examples from neutrino physics and general relativity to demonstrate how knowledge from seemingly esoteric or pure scientific fields can have practical applications. They believe that a strong foundation in fundamental research is vital for progress in applied sciences.

Takeaways

The Nobel laureates highlight the importance of motivation, curiosity, and perseverance in scientific and intellectual pursuits. They stress the significance of basic research in driving advancements and innovations. They also emphasize the role of education and supportive mentors in inspiring the next generation of scientists. Overall, their insights showcase the intrinsic value of scientific exploration and the potential societal impact that comes from pursuing knowledge and understanding.