We only have to look at ourselves to see how intelligent life might develop into something we wouldn't want to meet.
Stephen HawkingRead
As scientists, we step on the shoulders of science, building on the work that has come before us - aiming to inspire a new generation of young scientists to continue once we are gone.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Scientists build upon previous knowledge to inspire future generations.
In this quote, Stephen Hawking emphasizes the collaborative nature of scientific progress. Scientists stand on the foundation laid by their predecessors, using past discoveries as a stepping stone to further knowledge and innovation, ultimately inspiring young minds to carry on this legacy after their departure.
Themes
ScienceLegacyKnowledgeInspirationFuture
In practice
Example use cases
During a graduation speech for science students, to emphasize the importance of building on previous knowledge.
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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