Science is a way to not fool ourselves.
Carl SaganRead
Cutting off fundamental, curiosity-driven science is like eating the seed corn. We may have a little more to eat next winter but what will we plant so we and our children will have enough to get through the winters to come?
Interpretation
What this quote means
Neglecting basic science undermines future progress and sustainability.
Carl Sagan's quote emphasizes the critical importance of fundamental scientific research that is driven by curiosity. It illustrates the peril of sacrificing foundational knowledge for short-term benefits, warning that while immediate gains may be realized, the long-term consequences could hinder future generations' ability to thrive and innovate.
Themes
ScienceCuriosityFutureKnowledgeSustainability
In practice
Example use cases
During a science symposium, to highlight the importance of funding for basic research.
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The simplest thought, like the concept of the number one, has an elaborate logical underpinning.
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