Dr. Carl Sagan Quotes

A collection of quotes by Dr. Carl Sagan.

Dr. Carl Sagan was an American astrophysicist, astronomer, and science writer who played a significant role in popularizing science during the latter half of the 20th century. He was born on November 9, 1934, in Brooklyn, New York. From a young age, Sagan displayed a passion for astronomy, and he pursued his interest by studying planetary science and physics.

Sagan received his bachelor's and master's degrees in physics from the University of Chicago, and later completed his Ph.D. in astronomy and astrophysics at the same institution. Throughout his career, he conducted extensive research on planetary atmospheres, especially those of Venus and Mars. His work helped to provide insights into the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

Beyond his scientific contributions, Sagan was a superb communicator and dedicated educator. He hosted the renowned television series "Cosmos: A Personal Voyage" in 1980, which became one of the most-watched science programs in history. He also authored several best-selling books, including "Cosmos" and "Pale Blue Dot," which undoubtedly shaped public understanding and appreciation of science.

Throughout his life, Dr. Carl Sagan was a staunch advocate for reason, critical thinking, and the scientific method. He sought to inspire curiosity and wonder about the universe, emphasizing the importance of rational thought in the face of pseudoscience and unfounded beliefs. Sagan passed away on December 20, 1996, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a scientist, educator, and science communicator.

I maintain there is much more wonder in science than in pseu

I maintain there is much more wonder in science than in pseudoscience. And in addition, to whatever measure this term has any meaning, science has the additional virtue, and it is not an inconsiderable one, of being true.

Dr. Carl Sagan


There are many hypotheses in science which are wrong. That's

There are many hypotheses in science which are wrong. That's perfectly all right; they're the aperture to finding out what's right. Science is a self-correcting process. To be accepted, new ideas must survive the most rigorous standards of evidence and scrutiny.

Dr. Carl Sagan

Science

When Kepler found his long-cherished belief did not agree wi

When Kepler found his long-cherished belief did not agree with the most precise observation, he accepted the uncomfortable fact. He preferred the hard truth to his dearest illusions; that is the heart of science.

Dr. Carl Sagan

Science

Knowing a great deal is not the same as being smart; intelli

Knowing a great deal is not the same as being smart; intelligence is not information alone but also judgment, the manner in which information is collected and used

Dr. Carl Sagan

Wisdom Life Intelligence Judgement Manners Information

Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.

Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.

Dr. Carl Sagan

Science Research Universe

A galaxy is composed of gas and dust and stars - -billions u

A galaxy is composed of gas and dust and stars - -billions upon billions of stars

Dr. Carl Sagan

Science

In science it often happens that scientists say, 'You know t

In science it often happens that scientists say, 'You know that's a really good argument; my position is mistaken', and then they would actually change their minds and you never hear that old view from them again. They really do it. It doesn't happen

Dr. Carl Sagan

Science Arguments