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One of the most valuable courses I took as an undergrad was an anthropology course. In it, we studied the life of JR Oppenheimer and his relationship with the g
by mmhsieh 6y ago
One of the most valuable courses I took as an undergrad was an anthropology course. In it, we studied the life of JR Oppenheimer and his relationship with the government patrons of his science.
The sort of scoundrels naturally attracted to power will always find cynical use for talent of the kind possessed by Oppenheimer. However, every aspect of such a relationship will be thoroughly cynical.
If you are a future STEM person, understanding this fact will save you a lot of grief. Learn it early.
- wrnr 6y agoWas it beyond Oppenheimer's intellect and imagination to comprehend what he was doing? Sort of like nazi Germany having no idea what was happening to the jews?
- jacobwilliamroy 6y agoYou've seen how military contractors act on HN. I'm sure Oppenheimer was spouting all the same old excuses. "Orders are orders. It's just my job. If I don't someone else will." Oppenheimer's mistake was being born as a human being, instead of an angel.
- deleted 6y ago[deleted]
- mhh__ 6y agoYou aren't wrong but in the case of Oppenheimer - If we don't build this bomb what happens if the German's build one and when the soviets definitely get their hands on one?