4 ms·

Richard Feynman is kind of a jerk. Edit: What I mean is: How condescending is it to write someone a letter saying that they don't understand people, and they

• nailer 16y ago
  I don't think he's a jerk, but yes, many people would 'cushion' that assessment with 'it seems like' or 'I don't mean to offend, but I suggest'. Others don't get the need to do that. Personally I find there's a balance between being direct and handling people's egos.
• hugh3 16y ago
  How condescending is it to write someone a letter saying that they don't understand people, and they should try falling in love? Under ordinary circumstances, pretty condescending. However remember that: a) Wolfram was a 26-year-old at the start of his career and Feynman was 68 years old and easily one of the most respected scientists in the world. b) Wolfram wrote to Feynman for advice. To get any response from someone that many levels above you is doing pretty well. c) Wolfram started it -- he was the one who talked about ordinary people being "stupid fools" whom he couldn't tolerate.