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Able Quote by Carl Sagan

“We seem, these days, much more willing to recognize the perils before us than we were even a decade ago. The newly recognized dangers threaten all of us, equally. No one can say how it will turn out down here. But this is also, we may note, the first time that a species has become able to journey…” quote by Carl Sagan
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“We seem, these days, much more willing to recognize the perils before us than we were even a decade ago. The newly recognized dangers threaten all of us, equally. No one can say how it will turn out down here. But this is also, we may note, the first time that a species has become able to journey to the planets and the stars. Sailors on a becalmed sea, we sense a stirring of the breeze.”

Carl Sagan

About This Quote

Source Speech: Public lecture on humanity's future, 1995

Humanity now recognizes risks and also has the unprecedented ability to explore space.

In simple terms: We see dangers and can travel to stars.

Key Takeaway

Balance risk awareness with exploration ambition.

Themes

exploration risk awareness future humanity

Mood

hopeful cautious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • science education
  • international cooperation
  • space missions

Key Concepts

space travel existential risk technological progress

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities come with interstellar travel?
  • How can we mitigate emerging global threats?
A Different Perspective

Optimism may overlook immediate challenges.

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