Kidneys Quote by Neil deGrasse Tyson
““some of the water you just drank passed through the kidneys of Socrates, Genghis Khan, and Joan of Arc. How””
About This Quote
Source Talk: Science Communication Event, 2018
Our bodies contain atoms that were once part of historic figures, linking us physically to the past.
In simple terms: We are made of ancient atoms from famous people.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the shared material history of humanity.
Themes
science
history
humility
connection
Mood
wonderful
humbling
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- education
- public talks
- science writing
- museum exhibits
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
atom recycling
cosmic perspective
interconnectedness
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to share atoms with the past?
- How does this perspective affect our view of history?
A Different Perspective
The statement is metaphorical, not literal, which may mislead some listeners.
![“They [scientists of centuries past] call on God only from the lonely and precarious edge of incomprehension. Where they feel certain about their explanations, however, God gets hardly a mention.” quote by Neil deGrasse Tyson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0b0/neil-degrasse-tyson-143_century_they-scientists-of-centuries-past-call-o_12921.jpg)
![“The power of the state stops at our skins. They can't restrict contraception [or] abortion. They can't take our kidneys. Bodily integrity is a principle.” quote by Gloria Steinem](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/49f/gloria-steinem-277_abortion_the-power-of-the-state-stops-at-our-skin_304477.jpg)