The truly great ideas in physics are actually quite simply stated. They are subsequently mathematically elaborated, to the point where it can be hard to separat

The truly great ideas in physics are actually quite simply stated. They are subsequently mathematically elaborated, to the point where it can be hard to separate out the core idea. Even a Feynman can’t track all the work going on, and elaboration doesn’t win Nobel prizes. Most physicists don’t have the ability to rise above elaboration and application - it takes an Einstein or a Feynman to grasp and extend the core with big ideas, while not being distracted by the fog of elaborative papers. My favorite is, Wheeler: “Feynman, I know why all electrons are exactly alike!” Feynman: “Why?” Wheeler: “There is only one electron!” [looping through space-time, we see the cross sections]. Ahh....