Kenneth G. Wilson

American Scientist

About Kenneth G. Wilson

Kenneth Geddes “Ken” Wilson (June 8, 1936 – June 15, 2013) was an American theoretical physicist and a pioneer in using computers for studying particle physics. He was awarded the 1982 Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on phase transitions–illuminating the subtle essence of phenomena like melting ice and emerging magnetism. It was embodied in his fundamental work on the renormalization group.

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Quotes by Kenneth G. Wilson

In 1975 I met Alison Brown and in 1982 we were married. She works for Cornell Computer Services.

Kenneth G. Wilson

In consequence, science is more important than ever for industrial technology.

Kenneth G. Wilson

Industry now should become a full partner of government in supporting longrange basic research.

Kenneth G. Wilson

My father was on the faculty in the Chemistry Department of Harvard University; my mother had one year of graduate work in physics before her marriage.

Kenneth G. Wilson

My graduate studies were carried out at the California Institute of Technology.

Kenneth G. Wilson

My grandfather on my mother’s side was a professor of mechanical engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology; my other grandfather was a lawyer, and one time Speaker of the Tennessee House of Representatives.

Kenneth G. Wilson

One other hobby of mine has been playing the oboe but I have not kept this up after 1969.

Kenneth G. Wilson

Scientists under all forms of government must be able to participate fully in international efforts.

Kenneth G. Wilson

The hardest problems of pure and applied science can only be solved by the open collaboration of the world-wide scientific community.

Kenneth G. Wilson

The Nobel award occasions a unique celebration of the vision of science by the public at large. The prestige the prize confers today is largely due to the extraordinary diligence of the Nobel committees.

Kenneth G. Wilson

The scientist’s inquiry into the causes of things is providing an ever more extensive understanding of nature.

Kenneth G. Wilson

Through this additional support, we must renew our commitment to provide talented young people with the opportunity to build scientific careers based on their curiosity, the same opportunity that was provided to me when I began my work.

Kenneth G. Wilson

While at Cal Tech I talked a lot with Jon Mathews, then a junior faculty member; he taught me how to use the Institute’s computer; we also went on hikes together.

Kenneth G. Wilson