“You take a high view of your own abilities in comparison with those of your colleagues! ” said Cogswell dryly.
“No — not of my abilities, but of the methods by which I have been able to make these discoveries. To clarify my position, let us take a more understandable example.
“One of the most well-known technological devices in modern science and industry is the common photoelectric cell. The photo cell was made possible by the discoveries of Dr. Albert Einstein. Dr. Einstein did not invent the photo cell; he discovered the basic principles by which others were able to do the actual designing of the device. Do you see the difference?
“Dr. Einstein did not, and could not obtain any patents upon his basic discoveries. He went without any appreciable remuneration for that work. But the corporations which have since designed and manufactured photoelectric cells have been paid fabulous royalties on the patents they hold on photo cells. The man who made photo cells possible receives no royalty.
“This same man, through his momentous principle: E = MC 2, laid the foundation for the atomic bomb. You may be sure that the Atomic Energy Commission does not pay him royalties on each bomb produced — or to any of the other workers whose basic discoveries made possible the production of this weapon.
“On the other hand you will find that —”
There was a sudden explosive stir at the rear of the room. For a moment it seemed as if an excited beetle had burst into flight. Then it became apparent that it was merely Dr. Dykstra who had flown from his seat and was rushing down the short aisle toward the senators’ table.
“This is preposterous!” he exclaimed. “Absolutely preposterous! I assure you, gentlemen, that Dr. Einstein would not have his name profaned by being mentioned in connection with this... this mercenary attempt to —”
Chairman Cogswell rapped loudly with his gavel. “If you please! You will be called and allowed to give testimony when the time comes. At the moment we are hearing Dr. Nagle. You will please take your seat and refrain from further interruptions of this kind.”
“I have only one more major point I wish to make at this time,” said Mart. “Mention has been made of the nation’s need of scientific talent of the highest order, the need of new and basic discoveries. I wish to add my observation that this is indeed true. Our need is critical.