The tools of the academic designer are a piece of paper and a pencil with an eraser. If a mistake is made, it can always be erased and changed. If the practical-reactor designer errs, he wears the mistake around his neck; it cannot be erased. Everyone sees it.

Those involved with practical reactors, humbled by their experiences, speak less and worry more.

When doing a job — any job — one must feel that he owns it, and act as though he will remain in that job forever.

Success teaches us nothing; only failure teaches.

All new ideas begin in a non-conforming mind that questions some tenet of the conventional wisdom.

All men are by nature conservative but conservatism in the military profession is a source of danger to the country. One must be ready to change his line sharply and suddenly, with no concern for the prejudices and memories of what was yesterday. To rest upon formula is a slumber that, prolonged, means death.

As a guide to engineering ethics, I should like to commend to you a liberal adaptation of the injunction contained in the oath of Hippocrates that the professional man do nothing that will harm his client.