“Science is not only compatible with spirituality; it is a profound source of spirituality. When we recognize our place in an immensity of light years and in the passage of ages, when we grasp the intricacy, beauty and subtlety of life, then that soaring feeling, that sense of elation and humility combined, is surely spiritual.”
Carl Sagan
Beautiful
His writing embodied his love of both reasoned discourse and life.
What a great man Sagan was. This is a beautiful quote, Mike. Thanks.
David,
Sagan was a beacon of child-like curiousity and wisdom. They don’t make ’em like that any more.
Wow! Profound quote from an amazing man. His Cosmos TV program was unlike any other and I was hooked to it!
Annika,
I watched the entire series at least three times. Very moving.
Great quote. I’ve always admired Sagan’s deep insight into all types of topics.
I loved Cosmos and thoroughly enjoyed The Dragons of Eden. An amazing polymath.
My goodness, what a powerful and perfect quote. Sagan was a genius with the heart and passion most scientists don’t have. Did you ever see Sagan when he taught a fifth grade class? It was ages ago, yet I’ll never forget it. Thank you, Mike.
Jennie,
Sagan was the personification of the Two Cultures in one soul that C P Snow wrote about.
I think I did see a scene from Sagan’s visit to the elementary school. As I recall, he told a young girl that she was part of the Milky Way galaxy. As he spoke, you could see the wonder in Sagan’s face.
Yes, he was. I think every science teacher should be required to watch Sagan in the classroom. I don’t remember that scene with the girl. I will definitely find and watch that clip again. Thank you, Mike.
Mike, the more I think about CP Snow, the more I see where is is spot on. Science is education, and ALL educators need both cultures.
That is wonderfully profound!
Yes, profound with a sense of humility. Rare.
so perfectly said by this kind and brilliant man. he has been one of my idols for years –
It is a great quote. I’ve read a few books by Carl Sagan including Cosmos and a Demon Haunted World, and I watched the TV series Cosmos as a kid. He was certainly a great science communicator.
Thomas,
I haven’t read Demons yet. Looking forward to it! What did you think of Dragons of Eden?
I did not read Dragons of Eden. When it came out I was too young read to about evolution, which my family (including me) believed was an evil hoax. I would love to read it now though.
What beautiful words. Thanks for sharing.
Darlene,
Sagan understood our division of the mind and body is unnatural and harmful. The more we learn about the natural world, the greater our love for it and ourselves.
Obviously, a lot of like-minded folk on here…A profound quote which sits very comfortably with me!
Joy,
Readers of this blog share love of nature and deep concern we have lost touch with who we are and what truly matters. That’s what I write about. See my About page for more if interested.
An insightful and splendid man!
Opher,
We could use a voice of reason and concern like that. Instead we hear strident ideologues demanding compliance.
Yes, you are right. We need more people like Carl, people with intelligence, insight and compaqssion; people who care and will speak out!