J Willard Gibbs - Collected Quotes

"Although geometrical representations of propositions in the thermodynamics of fluids are in general use and have done good service in disseminating clear notions in this science, yet they have by no means received the extension in respect to variety and generality of which they are capable." (J Willard Gibbs, "Graphical Methods in the Thermodynamics of Fluids", 1873)

"A satisfactory theory of the imaginary quantities of ordinary algebra, which is essentially a simple case of multiple algebra, with difficulty obtained recognition in the first third of this century. We must observe that this double algebra, as it has been called, was not sought for or invented; - it forced itself, unbidden, upon the attention of mathematicians, and with its rules already formed. But the idea of double algebra, once received, although as it were unwillingly, must have suggested to many minds more or less distinctly the possibility of other multiple algebras, of higher orders, possessing interesting or useful properties." (Josiah W Gibbs, "On multiple Algebra", Proceedings of the American Association for the Advancement of Science Vol. 35, 1886)

"The merits or demerits of a pamphlet printed for private distribution a good many years ago do not constitute a subject of any great importance, but the assumptions implied in the sentence quoted are suggestive of certain reflections and inquiries which are of broader interest, and seem not untimely at a period when the methods and results of the various forms of multiple algebra are attracting so much attention. It seems to be assumed that a departure from quaternionic usage in the treatment of vectors is an enormity. If this assumption is true, it is an important truth; if not, it would be unfortunate if it should remain unchallenged, especially when supported by so high an authority. The criticism relates particularly to the notations, but I believe that there is a deeper question of notions underlying that of notations. Indeed, if my offence had been solely in the matter of notations, it would have been less accurate to describe my productions as a monstrosity, than to characterize its dress as uncouth." (Josiah W Gibbs, "The Rôle of Quaternions in the Algebra of Vectors, Nature vol. xliii, 1891)

"The laws of thermodynamics, as empirically determined, express the approximate and probable behavior of systems of a great number of particles, or, more precisely, they express the laws of mechanics for such systems as they appear to beings who have not the fineness of perception to enable them to appreciate quantities of the order of magnitude of those which relate to single particles, and who cannot repeat their experiments often enough to obtain any but the most probable results." (Josiah W Gibbs, "Elementary Principles in Statistical Mechanics", 1902)

“One of the principal objects of theoretical research in any department of knowledge is to find the point of view from which the subject appears in its greatest simplicity.” (J Willard Gibbs)

"The whole is simpler than its parts." (Josiah W Gibbs)

"The human mind has never invented a labor-saving machine equal to algebra." (J Willard Gibbs)