“In much of society, research means to investigate something you do not know or understand.”
- August 5, 1930 – August 25, 2012
- American
- Astronaut, Aerospace Engineer, First Person to Walk on the Moon
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Quote
“In much of society, research means to investigate something you do not know or understand.”
Explanation
This quote by Neil Armstrong defines research in its most fundamental and honest form: the pursuit of understanding the unknown. Rather than treating research as merely a professional or academic activity, Armstrong emphasizes that at its core, research is about curiosity, humility, and the courage to confront uncertainty. The phrase “something you do not know or understand” highlights that the starting point of inquiry is always ignorance, not expertise, and that acknowledging this is not a weakness but a strength.
Armstrong’s perspective aligns with his background as an engineer and astronaut, where every mission depended on solving complex problems through disciplined investigation. From developing new flight systems to navigating the Moon’s surface, the success of his work required constant engagement with unfamiliar and unpredictable situations. His words also serve as a reminder that genuine research requires an open mind, a willingness to ask questions, and the patience to follow where evidence leads — even when answers are elusive.
In modern society, where information is abundant and certainty often overstated, Armstrong’s quote is a call to revive the spirit of inquiry. Whether in science, policymaking, or everyday problem-solving, progress comes not from pretending to know, but from investing in the effort to understand. His statement encourages individuals and institutions alike to embrace the unknown as the birthplace of discovery, and to respect research as the path to both knowledge and wisdom.
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