À Scientific Experiences in Medical Research by Walter Bradford Cannon, 1945.
Conclusions of Chapter VI on Gains from Serendipity:
“Most of my illustrations of serendipity have been drawn from the physical and biological sciences. In political, economic, and social affairs, likewise, important and pressing questions are calling for responses. A better world for all of us will be ours when these questions are answered. Many new discoveries are needed in order that these questions may be answered. How can we find ways to achieve more perfect justice among men? How can there be a fairer distribution of the abundance agriculture and industry can produce? What conditions can be devised that will promote good health and effective medical care? How can we be freed from the distress caused by great oscillations between financial booms and depressions? What can be done to reduce crime and the number of criminals, to stabilize family life, and to avoid or rectify numerous other maladjustments? Discoveries that will yield deeper insight into modes of resolving these urgent, difficult and apparently baffling social problems are likely to be made by minds characterized by learning and by liberality, ready to take prompt advantage of fortunate events which, amid extremely complex situations, are sure to appear. Quite unforeseen possibilities will unexpectedly spring forth, chances of serendipity which the sagacious can utilize.” [Cannon; 1945:78]
