The mathematical equation that ushered in the atomic age was discovered by an unknown Italian dilettante two years before Albert Einstein used it in developing the theory of relativity, it was claimed yesterday
PakistaniAbroad: Those who actually know what all of the above means please comment.
whether or not E=MC^2 was discovered by einstein or anyone else, will not change the fact that the major credit for relativity should still go to einstein, cuz this equation was but a minor part of the relativity theory.
However, only focussing on this equation, i still think it is einstein who should get the plaudits, cuz more important than discovering something is to realise how to use it properly. And Einstein realised this latter.
Much like Darwin's initial premise of Natural Selection, breakthroughs in a number of new fields of science sometimes happen simultaneously. I think it's usually a case of peers following each other’s progress closely and using a piece of inspiration from another worker in the field to fit into their particular jigsaw.
Many people in the field of science are masters within their own particular sphere but cover work that translates. It’s the ability to have a theory then use existing data or formulae to 'back it up' that is sought after, much like Einstein’s Relativity.
True genius, in my opinion, is knowing the practical value of your work at present or in the future.