Stephen Hawking

I think the brain is essentially a computer and consciousness is like a computer program. It will cease to run when the computer is turned off. Theoretically, it could be re-created on a neural network, but that would be very difficult, as it would require all one's memories.

Science predicts that many different kinds of universe will be spontaneously created out of nothing. It is a matter of chance which we are in.

Among physicists, I'm respected I hope.

Philosophers have not kept up with modern developments in science. Particularly physics.

There is a real danger that computers will develop intelligence and take over. We urgently need to develop direct connections to the brain so that computers can add to human intelligence rather than be in opposition.

There are grounds for cautious optimism that we may now be near the end ofthe search for the ultimate laws of nature.

I want to know why the universe exists, why there is something greater than nothing.

Science is not only a disciple of reason but, also, one of romance and passion.

There is no heaven or afterlife for broken down computers; that is a fairy story for people afraid of the dark.

There is no unique picture of reality.

Even if there is only one possible unified theory, it is just a set of rules and equations. What is it that breathes fire into the equations and makes a universe for them to describe?

Why are we here? Where do we come from? Traditionally, these are questions for philosophy, but philosophy is dead.

My goal is simple. It is a complete understanding of the universe, why it is as it is and why it exists at all.

Life would be tragic if it weren't funny.

We are just an advanced breed of monkeys on a minor planet of a very average star. But we can understand the Universe. That makes us something very special.

I have noticed even people who claim everything is predestined, and that we can do nothing to change it, look before they cross the road.

Religion believes in miracles, but these aren't compatible with science.

What was God doing before the divine creation? Was he preparing hell for people who asked such questions?

Before we understand science, it is natural to believe that God created the universe. But now science offers a more convincing explanation.

We don't let animals suffer, so why humans?

While there's life, there is hope.