Cerebral Quote by Carl Sagan
“There is no other species on Earth that does science. It is, so far, entirely a human invention, evolved by natural selection in the cerebral cortex for one simple reason: it works. It is not perfect. It can be misused. It is only a tool. But it is by far the best tool we have, self-correcting, ongoing, applicable to everything.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Cosmos, 1980
Science is a uniquely human, self‑correcting tool that, despite imperfections, remains our most powerful method for understanding reality.
In simple terms: Science is our best imperfect tool.
Key Takeaway
Use science wisely, stay critical.
Themes
science
human nature
tool
knowledge
ethics
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
inspirational
Type
scientific
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- education
- policy making
- research labs
- public discourse
Key Concepts
epistemology
evolution
technology
methodology
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards can prevent scientific misuse?
- How do we balance confidence in science with humility?
A Different Perspective
Science can be misused; ethical vigilance is essential.
![“[Science] is not perfect. It can be misused. It is only a tool. But it is by far the best tool we have, self-correcting, ongoing, applicable to everything. It has two rules. First: there are no sacred truths; all assumptions must be critically examined; arguments from authority are worthless…” quote by Carl Sagan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0b3/carl-sagan-160_argument_science-is-not-perfect-it-can-be-misused_2558360.jpg)
![“[ When a religious couple wrote to Sagan about fulfilled prophecies, he wrote back in May 1996 :] If ‘fulfilled prophecy’ is your criterion, why do you not believe in materialistic science, which has an unparalleled record of fulfilled prophecy? Consider, for example, eclipses.” quote by Carl Sagan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/875/carl-sagan-160_belief_when-a-religious-couple-wrote-to-sagan-a_25095.jpg)
