One sometimes finds what one is not looking for.
Meaning of the quote
This quote means that sometimes we discover things by accident, even when we weren't actively searching for them. For example, a scientist might be trying to study one thing, but end up finding something completely different that they didn't expect. Unexpected discoveries can often lead to the most interesting and important findings.
About Alexander Fleming
Sir Alexander Fleming was a Scottish physician and microbiologist who discovered the world’s first broadly effective antibiotic substance, penicillin, in 1928. He also discovered the enzyme lysozyme and a bacterium he named Micrococcus luteus. Fleming was knighted for his scientific achievements and was recognized as one of the 100 most important people of the 20th century.
More quotes from Alexander Fleming
It is the lone worker who makes the first advance in a subject; the details may be worked out by a team, but the prime idea is due to enterprise, thought, and perception of an individual.
Scottish biologist, pharmacologist, botanist, and Nobel laureate (1881-1955)
One sometimes finds what one is not looking for.
Scottish biologist, pharmacologist, botanist, and Nobel laureate (1881-1955)
I have been trying to point out that in our lives chance may have an astonishing influence and, if I may offer advice to the young laboratory worker, it would be this – never to neglect an extraordinary appearance or happening.
Scottish biologist, pharmacologist, botanist, and Nobel laureate (1881-1955)