On the Serious and the Funny in Science (Based on Materials of Digital Libraries)

Abstract

Digital libraries (DLs) and archives accumulate gigantic volumes of information. The goal of this work is, without trying to cover this immensity, to attempt, using a relatively small number of striking examples, to trace how issues of scientific creativity are reflected in DLs; to discuss and dispel stereotypical ideas about scientists as unsociable, pedantic formalists or eccentric, absent-minded persons; and to show how the peculiarities of scientists’ thought processes combined with high intelligence can cause misunderstanding in everyday life. At the same time, these qualities combined with originality of thinking, sometimes becoming a paradox, are manifested in non-standard approaches to problems, non-trivial solutions, and an ironic attitude towards the surrounding reality. As a result, along with serious results, unexpected associations and analogies, jokes, witticisms, and anecdotes are born. The paper provides examples of the creativity of scientists in the professional field as well as works in genres such as science fiction, utopia, humor, and art song. Materials from more than 20 DLs were used.