Abstract of the Commemorative lecture
The Harder One Works the More Luck One Gets
My introduction t polymer chemistry and the discovery of living polymers were the results of unexpected events. Undoubtedly I was lucky. However, here is a point deserving stresing. The harder one works the more luck one gets. This should be remembered especially by young people. Another point is worthy of emphasis. Unexpected events happen quite often. It is important to note them and to realize their significance. Then there is another problem. Should we investigate the unexpected phenomenon of should we leave it, perhaps keep it in mind, and continue with our previously planned work. This decision is crucial. To follow every unexpected event may liad to a chase of wild geese. One may spend time and effort on insignificant problems. On the other hand, a gold mine may be missed by not pursuing the new opening. There are no rules that guide one's decision. It helps to understand the phenomenon and to use one's intelligence and intuition. These problems are general. They are encountered in ordinary life as well as in research and their proper judgement is often vital.
