I imagine I am in one of my minimalist moments...
From here (Feynman), at the very end of the lecture:It has apparently been known for a long time that high objects are struck by lightning. There is a quotation of Artabanis, the advisor to Xerxes, giving his master advice on a contemplated attack on the Greeks-during Xerxes's campaign to bring the entire known world under the control of the Persians. Artabanis said, "See how God with his lightning always smites the bigger animals and will not suffer them to wax insolent, while these of a lesser bulk chafe him not. How likewise his bolts fall ever on the highest houses and tallest trees." And then he explains the reason: "So, plainly, doth he love to bring down everything that exalts itself."
Do you think-now that you know a true account of lightning striking tall trees-that you have a greater wisdom in advicing kings on military matters than did Artabanis 2300 years ago? Do not exalt yourself. You could only do it less poetically.
posted by Galilei @ 11:44 pm
