While researching the current state-of-the-art in concurrent engineering, I came across an interesting list of prognostications, which today obviously look ridiculous. These famous people actually made these statements:
1) “Everything that can be invented has been invented.” – Charles H. Duell, Commissioner, U.S. Office of Patents, 1899
2) “Airplanes are interesting toys but of no military value.” – Ferdinand Foch, French Army, 1907
3) “The wireless music box has no imaginable commercial value.” – David Sarnoff, President of RCA, 1926
4) “I think there is a world market for maybe five computers.” – Thomas Watson, Chairman of IBM, 1943
5) “There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home.” – Ken Olson, President of DEC, 1977