2.8. Lesson 9: Know Properties, Not Theories
Edison was always more interested in the properties of substances—in which he saw the potential for practical, creative application—than in theories about how things worked. For example, when he discovered that compressed carbon was highly sensitive to variable electric currents, he created what became the carbon button transmitter, an innovation that greatly increased the sensitivity and the fidelity of telephone transmission.
The carbon button proved to be one of Edison's most profitable and enduring innovations, lasting (as noted) well into the 1970s. Yet, in classic Edison fashion, the inventor persisted in exploring the properties of compressed carbon even after he had successfully created and ...
Get Edison on Innovation: 102 Lessons in Creativity for Business and Beyond now with the O’Reilly learning platform.
O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.
