Meaning: The quote "Science grows like a weed every year" by Kary Mullis, a renowned biochemist and Nobel laureate, encapsulates the rapid and expansive nature of scientific progress. Mullis, known for his pioneering work in the field of polymerase chain reaction (PCR), was a vocal advocate for the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of scientific discovery. In this quote, he captures the essence of the relentless growth and proliferation of scientific knowledge and advancements.

Science, as a collective endeavor, is characterized by its continuous expansion and development. Each year, new discoveries, breakthroughs, and innovations propel the boundaries of human knowledge further, leading to a profound and exponential growth in our understanding of the natural world. This growth is often likened to the rapid and pervasive nature of weeds, which proliferate and spread vigorously, often in unexpected and persistent ways.

The comparison to a weed is particularly apt in highlighting the unrelenting and pervasive nature of scientific growth. Like a weed, scientific knowledge has a tendency to spread and take root in diverse fields and disciplines, often crossing boundaries and permeating into unexpected areas. This interdisciplinary nature of scientific growth allows for the cross-pollination of ideas and the emergence of novel insights and applications.

Furthermore, the reference to "every year" in Mullis' quote emphasizes the continual and ongoing nature of scientific progress. It acknowledges that the pace of scientific growth is not static but rather accelerates with each passing year. The cumulative effect of annual advancements results in an exponential increase in our collective understanding, leading to an ever-expanding body of knowledge.

Mullis' comparison of science to a weed also alludes to the resilience and adaptability of scientific inquiry. Much like weeds that thrive in diverse environments and conditions, scientific progress often emerges from unexpected sources and flourishes in the face of challenges and setbacks. This resilience allows for the continual regeneration and diversification of scientific knowledge, ensuring that it remains robust and adaptable to changing circumstances.

Moreover, the quote underscores the organic and unpredictable nature of scientific growth. Just as weeds can sprout in seemingly inhospitable environments, scientific breakthroughs can arise from unconventional sources and unanticipated avenues of inquiry. This unpredictability contributes to the richness and diversity of scientific progress, fostering a culture of exploration and open-mindedness.

In conclusion, Kary Mullis' quote "Science grows like a weed every year" encapsulates the dynamic, expansive, and relentless nature of scientific progress. It underscores the continual expansion of knowledge, the interdisciplinary nature of discovery, and the resilience and adaptability of scientific inquiry. By likening science to a weed, Mullis highlights the organic, pervasive, and unpredictable character of scientific growth, emphasizing its continual evolution and proliferation.