
#355 – David Kipping: Alien Civilizations and Habitable Worlds
Lex Fridman Podcast
00:00
Ego and Chasing Recognition as a Scientist
Scientists must be guarded against their own egos when making monumental discoveries. While ego can attract skillful individuals to the field of science, it can also lead to a loss of objectivity and refusal to accept evidence that contradicts one's beliefs. This is exemplified by the case of Peter van der Kampf, who insisted on the existence of a non-existent exoplanet despite overwhelming evidence against it. The pursuit of fame and recognition can cloud a scientist's judgement. It is crucial to remain objective and consider the evidence before making claims or immortalizing oneself in scientific history.
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