I look up at the night sky, and I know that, yes, we are part of this Universe, we are in this Universe, but perhaps more important than both of those facts is that the Universe is in us. When I reflect on that fact, I look up — many people feel small, because they’re small and the Universe is big, but I feel big, because my atoms came from those stars.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes our connection to the universe and the significance of our existence within it.
Neil deGrasse Tyson's quote reflects on the profound relationship between humanity and the cosmos. It suggests that while the vastness of the universe may lead some to feel insignificant, one can find empowerment and meaning in recognizing that we as humans are made from the same elements that compose the stars. This perspective encourages a sense of belonging and awe, fostering an appreciation for both our individuality and our universal connection.
In practice
During a motivational speech about self-worth and belonging.
The problem is that many people operate on the assumption that NASA should go to Congress every year with hat in hand and justify it every year. Well, I see it as the greatest economic driver that there ever was. Economic drivers don't need justification.
The press still thinks [global warming] is controversial. So they find the 1% of the scientists and put them up as if they're 50% of the research results. You in the public would have no idea that this is basically a done deal and that we're on to other problems, because the journalists are trying to give it a 50/50 story. It's not a 50/50 story. It's not. Period.
As a scientist, I want to go to Mars and back to asteroids and the Moon because I'm a scientist. But I can tell you, I'm not so naive a scientist to think that the nation might not have geopolitical reasons for going into space.
In just one year, the expenditure of of the U.S.'s military budget is equivalent to the entire 50-year running budget of NASA combined.
One of my great laments is that education today seems to have... be less about passion and more about process, more about tactic or technique.
Lots of people think, well, we're humans; we're the most intelligent and accomplished species; we're in charge. Bacteria may have a different outlook: more bacteria live and work in one linear centimeter of your lower colon than all the humans who have ever lived. That's what's going on in your digestive tract right now. Are we in charge, or are we simply hosts for bacteria? It all depends on your outlook.
One of the most misleading representational techniques in our language is the use of the word 'I.'
How can one, who eats the flesh of others to swell his flesh, show compassion?
Why is it always the innocents who suffer most, when you high lords play your game of thrones?
There are people who are suffering beyond description. They are innocent people, they didn't bring this upon themselves. They are the victims of the sins of other people. And while it's hard to see, it's important to understand that these people exist.
Nothing is divine but what is agreeable to reason.
It is only with the heart that one can see rightly.
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