George Biddell Airy Quotes

• In the hands of Science and indomitable energy, results the most gigantic and absorbing may be wrought out by skilful combinations of acknowledged data and the simplest means.

  George Biddell Airy

  Mean, Hands, Data

  Sir George Biddell Airy (1855). “Lecture on the Pendulum-experiments at Harton Pit: Delivered in the Central Hall, South Shields, October 24, 1854”, p.4

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• I had made considerable advance ... in calculations on my favourite numerical lunar theory, when I discovered that, under the heavy pressure of unusual matters (two transits of Venus and some eclipses) I had committed a grievous error in the first stage of giving numerical value to my theory. My spirit in the work was broken, and I have never heartily proceeded with it since.

  George Biddell Airy

  Science, Moon, Two

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• On Sept 15th [1852] Mr Goulburn, Chancellor of the Exchequer, asked my opinion on the utility of Mr Babbage's calculating machine, and the propriety of spending further sums of money on it. I replied, entering fully into the matter, and giving my opinion that it was worthless.

  George Biddell Airy

  Giving, Machines, Entering

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