Computer science is one of the worst things that ever happened to either computers or to science.

The quote, "Computer science is one of the worst things that ever happened to either computers or to science," comes from Neil Gershenfeld, a physicist and director of the Center for Bits and Atoms at MIT. In this statement, Gershenfeld critiques the field of computer science, arguing that its focus on algorithms and mathematical principles may have diverted attention from the more creative and innovative aspects of computers and science. He suggests that computer science has, in some ways, hindered the true potential of technology by prioritizing theoretical frameworks over practical, exploratory advancements that could better integrate computers into real-world applications.

The origin of this quote lies in Gershenfeld's belief that computer science—while valuable in many respects—has become overly focused on abstract theories and systematic models. According to Gershenfeld, the early days of computing were defined by a sense of creativity and exploration, where computing technologies were used in a more interdisciplinary and hands-on manner. He seems to lament that the rise of computer science as a distinct discipline may have constrained the broader possibilities of what computers could achieve, narrowing their potential to serve a wider range of fields and applications.

In a broader sense, the quote highlights the tension between theory and practice in the evolution of technology. While computer science has undeniably advanced fields like software engineering, artificial intelligence, and data processing, Gershenfeld implies that its emphasis on formalism and structure may have sidelined the more creative and practical aspects of technology that could have led to faster, more versatile innovations. He challenges the notion that computer science, as it is traditionally practiced, is the key to unlocking the full potential of computers and science.

Ultimately, Gershenfeld's quote is a critique of the direction in which computer science has evolved. By questioning whether it has limited rather than expanded the possibilities of computers and scientific discovery, he calls for a broader, more inclusive approach that values creativity, interdisciplinary thinking, and hands-on experimentation—principles that were central to the early development of computing technologies.