Heterodox STEM • 99 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
- The story of Alfred Nobel and the Nobel Prize is more complex than the myth of him changing his will due to a scathing obituary; it likely stemmed from his interactions with peace advocates and his own beliefs in using weapons for peace.
- The development of dynamite involved notable predecessors before Nobel, including Braconnot, Pelouze, and Sobrero, each contributing to the understanding and application of explosive materials.
- Alfred Nobel's creation of dynamite revolutionized industries like transportation and mining, but also had negative impacts in warfare, raising ethical questions about scientists' responsibility in discovering dangerous technology.