Science is a way to not fool ourselves.
Carl SaganRead
A general problem with much of Western theology in my view is that the god portrayed is too small. It is a god of a tiny world and not a god of a galaxy much less of a universe.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Sagan critiques Western theology for limiting the concept of God to a narrow scope, suggesting a need for a more expansive view of divinity.
In this quote, Carl Sagan expresses his belief that much of Western theology constrains the idea of God to a small, insignificant context, failing to grasp the vastness of the universe. He argues that a true understanding of God should encompass the enormity and complexity of the cosmos, rather than being confined to a limited interpretation that reflects a 'tiny world.' This perspective invites deeper reflection on the nature of divinity and encourages embracing a broader, more inclusive vision of existence.
Themes
TheologyUniversePhilosophyGodVastnessPerspective
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about spirituality and science, one might reference this quote to emphasize the need for a broader understanding of God.
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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