Commemorating Alan Turing at London’s Science Museum

As Steven Pinker, the Harvard professor and popular science author, recently wrote:

“It would be an exaggeration to say that the British mathematician Alan Turing explained the nature of logical and mathematical reasoning, invented the digital computer, solved the mind-body problem, and saved Western civilization. But it would not be much of an exaggeration”. 

For proof, look no further than the stunning new exhibition “Codebreaker - Alan Turing’s Life and Legacy” which opens to the public today at London’s Science Museum. This tells the story of Turing’s vast achievements in a profoundly moving way, through an amazing collection of artifacts -- including items never before on display.

Photos from last night’s gala opening 

This exhibition is especially close to our hearts at Google, since not only is Turing a founding father of computing, in a way he is also the father of our collaboration with the Science Museum.

A few years ago one of Google’s senior engineers heard there was an idea to stage an exhibition about Turing. He got in touch and volunteered to help; and from that small seed, Google’s association with the Science Museum has now blossomed into a fully-fledged partnership.

In this, the centenary of Turing’s birth, we’re proud to sponsor such a fitting tribute to one of computing’s true heroes. The exhibition will be open until the end of June 2013, and entry is free, so do visit if you can.

Posted by Lynette Webb, Senior Manager, External Relations