The sciences do not try to explain, they hardly even try to interpret, they mainly make models. By a model is meant a mathematical construct which, with the addition of certain verbal interpretations, describes observed phenomena. The justification of such a mathematical construct is solely and precisely that it is expected to work-that is, correctly to describe phenomena from a reasonably wide area.
John von NeumannIf people do not believe that mathematics is simple, it is only because they do not realize how complicated life is.
John von NeumannI would like to make a confession which may seem immoral: I do not believe absolutely in Hilbert space any more.
John von NeumannKurt Godel's achievement in modern logic is singular and monumental - indeed it is more than a monument, it is a landmark which will remain visible far in space and time. ... The subject of logic has certainly completely changed its nature and possibilities with Godel's achievement.
John von Neumann