It is a good principle in science not to believe any 'fact'---however well attested---until it fits into some accepted frame of reference. Occasionally, of course, an observation can shatter the frame and force the construction of a new one, but that is extremely rare. Galileos and Einsteins seldom appear more than once per century, which is just as well for the equanimity of mankind.

I want to be remembered most as a writer - one who entertained readers, and, hopefully, stretched their imagination as well.

Science can destroy religion by ignoring it as well as by disproving its tenets. No one ever demonstrated, so far as I am aware, the nonexistence of Zeus or Thor, but they have few followers now.

Now I'm a scientific expert; that means I know nothing about absolutely everything.

I don't believe in God but I'm very interested in her.

Our lifetime may be the last that will be lived out in a technological society.

Astronomy, as nothing else can do, teaches men humility.