[T]he science of
calculation also is
indispensable as far
as the extraction of
the square and cube
roots: Algebra as
far as the quadratic
equation and the use
of logarithms are
often of value in
ordinary cases: but
all beyond these is
but a luxury; a
delicious luxury
indeed; but not to
be in indulged in by
one who is to have a
profession to follow
for his subsistence.
Citation:
J. Robert
Oppenheimer, "The
Encouragement of
Science," in I.
Gordon and S. Sorkin
(eds.), The Armchair
Science Reader, New
York: Simon and
Schuster, 1959.