“The mere formulation of a problem is far more often essential than its solution, which may be merely a matter of mathematical or experimental skill. To raise new questions, new possibilities, to regard old problems from a new angle requires creative imagination and makes real advances in science”
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Probable attribution
A source trail connects this quotation to Albert Einstein and http://umich.edu/~scps/html/01chap/html/summary.htm, but the exact English wording has not been confirmed in a primary text. The attribution is therefore probable rather than definitive.
Likely origin: http://umich.edu/~scps/html/01chap/html/summary.htm
Review the attribution sourceAbout this quote
This page records the wording "The mere formulation of a problem is far more often…," which centers on formulation, problem, often. A concrete trail points toward Einstein, but the exact English form remains unconfirmed; the page therefore labels it as attributed to him while preserving its science and creativity context.
When to use it
- Use "The mere formulation of a problem is far more often…" in a science discussion, then ask which concrete claim the wording makes.
- Compare its treatment of formulation with problem in a lesson, essay, or editorial note before drawing a conclusion.
- Before sharing it as Einstein's exact words, display the attribution caveat and follow the evidence link recorded on the page.