All new ideas begin in a non-conforming mind that questions some tenet of the conventional wisdom.
Hyman RickoverWhen doing a job — any job — one must feel that he owns it, and act as though he will remain in that job forever.
Hyman RickoverWhen the men in Russia foul up, they are dismisses, sometimes losing their necks. But we protect those who fail and press them to the government bosom.
Hyman RickoverAny one detail, followed through to its source, will usually reveal the general state of readiness of the whole organization.
Hyman RickoverAll 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.
Hyman Rickover