What big discoveries can be attributed to Elite schools?
spoondan: Elite schools have renowned faculty, great facilities, lots of money, and a focus on research. Consequently, the curricula are better; the research opportunities more numerous and varied; the expectations greater. These institutions have the capacity to engage and challenge their best students. And they have the reputations to attract the top students from around the world, where they meet, compete, and collaborate. I think this environment enhances the likelihood of innovation through sudden insight.Another possible mechanism for innovation is through gradual refinement leading to a breakthrough. Well-funded, research-oriented institutions are in the best position to fund this kind of incremental research.