Michael E. Fisher - teacher, mentor, colleague and friend: a (very) personal account

Abstract

The only rational way of educating is to be an example. If one cant help it, a warning example. Albert Einstein. I had the good fortune and privilege of having Michael Fisher as my teacher, supervisor, mentor and friend. During my years as a scientist, teacher and supervisor of about one hundred students and post docs I found myself innumerable times realizing that I am following or at least trying to follow Michaels example. These pages are my attempt to convey recollections of my association with Michael, focusing on how he served as an example for me.