Meaning: Donald J. Cram, an American chemist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1987, made this insightful statement about the process of scientific research. In this quote, Cram emphasizes the dynamic and iterative nature of scientific inquiry, highlighting the role of faith, uncertainty, experimentation, and learning from both successes and failures.

When an investigator begins research in a new field, they often do so with faith in their abilities, a foggy idea of what they want to achieve, and a willingness to conduct a few wild experiments. This initial stage of research is characterized by uncertainty and a willingness to take risks. The investigator may not have a clear roadmap or a well-defined hypothesis at this point, but they are driven by curiosity and the desire to explore new frontiers of knowledge.

As the research progresses, the investigator encounters a series of negative and positive results. These outcomes serve as valuable feedback, guiding the direction of the work and shaping the research process. Negative results, often seen as setbacks, provide crucial information that can lead to new insights and alternative approaches. Positive results, on the other hand, validate the investigator's hypotheses and experimental methods, providing a sense of progress and accomplishment.

The interplay of negative and positive results is central to the iterative nature of scientific research. It prompts the investigator to adjust their course, refine their experimental techniques, and reconsider their initial assumptions. This process of continuous learning and adaptation is essential for making meaningful advancements in a new field.

By the time the research is completed, the investigator has gained a deep understanding of the subject matter and the research process itself. They have learned from their experiences, both the successes and the failures, and have developed a clearer perspective on how the research should have been started and conducted. This reflection underscores the notion that scientific inquiry is not a linear path from hypothesis to conclusion, but rather a complex and evolving journey of discovery.

Cram's quote encapsulates the essence of scientific exploration and the inherent challenges and rewards it entails. It acknowledges the role of uncertainty and faith at the beginning of a research endeavor, while also emphasizing the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and learning from the unexpected throughout the process.

In conclusion, Donald Cram's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the dynamic and iterative nature of scientific research. It sheds light on the essential role of faith, experimentation, and learning from both negative and positive results in shaping the trajectory of inquiry. By embracing uncertainty and being open to the unexpected, investigators can navigate the complexities of a new field and ultimately gain valuable insights that refine their approach to research.