Besides it is an error to believe that rigour is the enemy of simplicity. On the contrary we find it confirmed by numerous examples that the rigorous method is at the same time the simpler and the more easily comprehended. The very effort for rigor forces us to find out simpler methods of proof.
David HilbertMathematics knows no races or geographic boundaries; for mathematics, the cultural world is one country.
David HilbertIs mathematics doomed to suffer the same fate as other sciences that have split into separate branches?... Mathematics is, in my opinion, an indivisible whole... May the new century bring with it ingenious champions and many zealous and enthusiastic disciples.
David HilbertWe do not master a scientific theory until we have shelled and completely prised free its mathematical kernel.
David HilbertOne must be able to say at all times--instead of points, straight lines, and planes--tables, chairs, and beer mugs
David HilbertWe ought not to believe those who today, adopting a philosophical air and with a tone of superiority, prophesy the decline of culter and are content with the unknowable in a self-satisfied way. For us there is no unknowable, and in my opinion there is also non whatsoever for the natural sciences. In place of this foolish unknowable, let our watchword on the contrary be: we must know - we shall know.
David Hilbert