We only have to look at ourselves to see how intelligent life might develop into something we wouldn't want to meet.
Stephen HawkingRead
Scientific discovery may not be better than sex, but the satisfaction lasts longer.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Scientific discoveries can provide lasting satisfaction compared to momentary pleasures.
In this quote, Stephen Hawking humorously contrasts the fleeting pleasure of sex with the enduring satisfaction that comes from making scientific discoveries. It highlights the deep fulfillment and lasting impact that intellectual pursuits can bring, suggesting that while physical pleasures are enjoyable, the rewards of knowledge and discovery have a more profound, long-lasting effect on a person's life and contributions to society.
Themes
Scientific DiscoverySatisfactionKnowledgeHumorIntellectual
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can serve as a great opener in a classroom discussion about the importance of scientific inquiry.
More from Stephen Hawking
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It surprises me how disinterested we are today about things like physics, space, the universe and philosophy of our existence, our purpose, our final destination. Its a crazy world out there. Be curious.
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I was not a good student. I did not spend much time at college; I was too busy enjoying myself.
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The world has changed far more in the past 100 years than in any other century in history. The reason is not political or economic but technological-technologies that flowed directly from advances in basic science. Clearly, no scientist better represents those advances than Albert Einstein: TIME's Person of the Century.
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In my opinion, there is no aspect of reality beyond the reach of the human mind.
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