“Without that context, failing to achieve an ambitious and somewhat arbitrary goal could unjustly overshadow her extraordinary accomplishments.” Love that quote
I enjoyed reading this post and some of the links provided. The video of Roger Bannister's first 4 minute mile run at Oxford in 1954 was the most authentic, and in my humble opinion, the most accurate report of factors that lead to the breaking any human barrier. He points to the luck of in the moment weather and the influence of his friends who assisted his attempt giving him the "extra spurt to go on". The human effort in using science to promote progress is admirable, but it seems there is usually an innate human "x" factor involved in real breakthroughs. Thanks for an inspiring read, James.
Just wanted to say how much I’m loving your work so far. As a molecular biologist and bioinformatician, it’s incredibly refreshing to see someone peel back the layers of research and peer-reviewed publications the way you do.
Your thought process is deeply enlightening.
And just to add — I’m Kenyan, so seeing this Faith Kipyegon piece show up in my inbox was a pleasant surprise!
Thank you so much, Patience! I really appreicate the kind words!
As scientists, we often take so much for granted within the culture of our research communities, including the nuances and limitations of the work. I've seen over time that these issues create (or perpetuate) misunderstandings. So, that's one of the reasons that I decided to write this newsletter.
I am glad you enjoyed the Faith Kipyegon article! It will be interesting to see just how fast she can go.
“Without that context, failing to achieve an ambitious and somewhat arbitrary goal could unjustly overshadow her extraordinary accomplishments.” Love that quote
I enjoyed reading this post and some of the links provided. The video of Roger Bannister's first 4 minute mile run at Oxford in 1954 was the most authentic, and in my humble opinion, the most accurate report of factors that lead to the breaking any human barrier. He points to the luck of in the moment weather and the influence of his friends who assisted his attempt giving him the "extra spurt to go on". The human effort in using science to promote progress is admirable, but it seems there is usually an innate human "x" factor involved in real breakthroughs. Thanks for an inspiring read, James.
Thanks, and glad you liked the videos! They really help demonstrate the human effort - so much more so than just a time alone.
Who broke 3:57 first?! I can't see it - may not have looked proeprly but you can't leave me hanging haha
Hey, thanks! I realized that I didn't add that answer at the end before I posted! It's been updated now :)
Hi, new subscriber.
Just wanted to say how much I’m loving your work so far. As a molecular biologist and bioinformatician, it’s incredibly refreshing to see someone peel back the layers of research and peer-reviewed publications the way you do.
Your thought process is deeply enlightening.
And just to add — I’m Kenyan, so seeing this Faith Kipyegon piece show up in my inbox was a pleasant surprise!
I’ll definitely be camping here on your Substack.
Thank you so much, Patience! I really appreicate the kind words!
As scientists, we often take so much for granted within the culture of our research communities, including the nuances and limitations of the work. I've seen over time that these issues create (or perpetuate) misunderstandings. So, that's one of the reasons that I decided to write this newsletter.
I am glad you enjoyed the Faith Kipyegon article! It will be interesting to see just how fast she can go.
Thanks again for your support of my Substack!