Did Nobel Prize-winning physicist Niels Bohr believe in good luck charms?

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The discussion centers on the intersection of science and superstition, highlighting notable scientists who engaged in rituals or held beliefs that seemed more magical than logical. A key example is Nobel Prize-winning physicist Niels Bohr, who humorously acknowledged the presence of a horseshoe in his office, stating that while he did not believe in its luck-bringing properties, he recognized the logic in the belief itself. This anecdote illustrates how some scientists may embrace certain superstitions or rituals without genuine belief, prompting questions about the prevalence of paranormal beliefs within various scientific fields. The conversation invites exploration of which branches of science might have a higher incidence of practitioners with such beliefs, suggesting a complex relationship between scientific reasoning and personal rituals.
Loren Booda
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Who among the great scientists had rituals or beliefs that were more magical than logical? Which of the sciences claims the largest proportion of paranormal purveyors?
 
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Here is a famous story. I don't know if it is true.

An American scientist once visited the offices of the great Nobel Prize-winning physicist, Neils Bohr, in Copenhagen, and was amazed to find a horseshoe was nailed to the wall over his desk.

The American said with a nervous laugh, "Surely you don't believe that horseshoe will bring you good luck, do you, Professor Bohr?"

Bohr chuckled. "I believe no such thing, my good friend. Not at all. I am scarcely likely to believe in such foolish nonsense. However, I am told that a horseshoe will bring you good luck whether you believe in it or not! How can one argue with such logic?"

http://www.laughbreak.com/stories/horseshoe_logic.html
 

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