Science is a way to not fool ourselves.
Carl SaganRead
For all our conceits about being the center of the universe, we live in a routine planet of a humdrum star stuck away in an obscure corner ... on an unexceptional galaxy which is one of about 100 billion galaxies. ... That is the fundamental fact of the universe we inhabit, and it is very good for us to understand that.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the insignificance of humanity in the vastness of the universe.
Carl Sagan's quote reflects on the humble position of Earth within the cosmos, suggesting that despite our self-importance, we are just a small part of an immense universe filled with billions of galaxies. By recognizing our place in the vast expanse of space, we can cultivate a more grounded perspective on our existence and find comfort in the greater context of life beyond ourselves.
Themes
UniverseHumilityInsignificanceCosmosEarthPerspective
In practice
Example use cases
Use this quote to inspire students during a science class about astronomy.
More from Carl Sagan
All quotes →In more than one respect, the exploring of the Solar System and homesteading other worlds constitutes the beginning, much more than the end, of history.
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How smart does a chimpanzee have to be before killing him constitutes murder?
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The hole in the ozone layer is a kind of skywriting. At first it seemed to spell out our continuing complacency before a witch's brew of deadly perils. But perhaps it really tells of a newfound talent to work together to protect the global environment.
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There is a reward structure in science that is very interesting: Our highest honors go to those who disprove the findings of the most revered among us. So Einstein is revered not just because he made so many fundamental contributions to science, but because he found an imperfection in the fundamental contribution of Isaac Newton.
Carl SaganRead
The simplest thought, like the concept of the number one, has an elaborate logical underpinning.
Carl SaganRead
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