In college, one of my physics professors put it this way: Even though someone else may have discovered a law or theorem already, doesn't make independently reas

In college, one of my physics professors put it this way: Even though someone else may have discovered a law or theorem already, doesn't make independently reasoning it out and getting to the same conclusion any less of an accomplishment. Good on him for attacking a problem, and for having the wherewithal to attempt more advanced prototypes.