Abstract
The paper presents the results of a quantitative analysis of speeches by Nobel laureates in the sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Medicine) at the Prize gala dinner throughout the whole history of the Prize, 1901–2018. The results outline key themes and historical trends. A dominant theme, common to most speeches, is the exaltation of science as a profession by the laureate. Since the 1970s, especially in chemistry, this element becomes more domain-specific and less related to science in general. One could speculate whether this happens chiefly in chemistry because its area of activity has been perceived to be at risk of erosion from competing fields (e.g. physics, biology). Over time, speeches become more technical, less ceremonial and more lecture-oriented. Emphasis on broad, beneficial impact of science for humanity and mankind (as emphasised in Nobel’s will) is more present in laureates’ speeches during the first half of the XXth century, while its relevance clearly declines during the last decades. Politics and its relationship with science is also a relevant topic in Nobel speeches. Particularly between the two World Wars, science is seen as terrain where nationalistic stances and fights among nations could actually find a context for peaceful competition and even cooperation.
Highlights
Studying the Nobel Prize in the sciences is an extraordinary gateway for understanding transformations in the public image of science–and of scientists–from the early XXth century to the present and understanding how the Prize itself contributed to shaping that image
The Nobel Prize announcements are one of the occasions when science makes global headline news in the media; the halo and reputation of the Prize reaching even those audiences which are not much interested in science; in fiction–from Hollywood movies to the Simpsons–‘Nobel’ has become a metonym for brilliant minds, genius and successful science
According to the original guidelines stated in the will of the founder Alfred Nobel, the Nobel Prize should reward those “who have conferred the greatest benefit to humankind” [16, 17]
Summary
Give science and peace a chance: Speeches by Nobel laureates in the sciences, 1901-2018. OPEN ACCESS Citation: Bucchi M, Loner E, Fattorini E (2019) Give science and peace a chance: Speeches by Nobel laureates in the sciences, 1901-2018. The paper presents the results of a quantitative analysis of speeches by Nobel laureates in the sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Medicine) at the Prize gala dinner throughout the whole history of the Prize, 1901–2018. A dominant theme, common to most speeches, is the exaltation of science as a profession by the laureate. Beneficial impact of science for humanity and mankind (as emphasised in Nobel’s will) is more present in laureates’ speeches during the first half of the XXth century, while its relevance clearly declines during the last decades. Politics and its relationship with science is a relevant topic in Nobel speeches.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
