When computers came along, I felt for the first time that I had the proper tools for the kind of theoretical work I wanted to do. So I moved over to that, and that got me into psychology.

In this quote, Herbert A. Simon reflects on how the advent of computers provided him with the tools necessary to pursue the theoretical work he was interested in. Simon explains that for the first time, the capabilities of computers aligned with his goals, allowing him to explore areas he hadn’t been able to tackle before. This shift marked a pivotal moment in his career, as it led him to psychology, where he could apply computational methods to understand human behavior and decision-making processes.

Simon’s statement highlights the transformative role of technology in advancing fields of theoretical research. The computer enabled Simon to model complex systems, especially in the field of psychology, in ways that traditional methods could not. It was this intersection of technology and theoretical exploration that opened up new possibilities for psychological research, particularly in areas like cognitive psychology and decision theory.

The origin of this quote comes from Herbert A. Simon, a renowned psychologist and cognitive scientist, widely recognized for his work in the field of artificial intelligence and decision-making. Simon was a pioneering figure who contributed significantly to understanding how human beings make decisions and solve problems, often using computers to simulate human thought processes. His work has had a lasting influence on psychology, economics, and computer science.

Ultimately, Simon’s quote underscores the importance of computers in revolutionizing how theoretical work can be conducted, particularly in fields like psychology. By embracing computational tools, Simon was able to break new ground in his research, proving that the right tools can unlock new avenues of inquiry and innovation in scientific exploration.