A galaxy is composed of gas and dust and stars - billions upon billions of stars. Every star may be a sun to someone.

Science is an attempt, largely successful, to understand the world, to get a grip on things, to get hold of ourselves, to steer a safe course. Microbiology and meteorology now explain what only a few centuries ago was considered sufficient cause to burn women to death.

People are not stupid. They believe things for reasons. The last way for skeptics to get the attention of bright, curious, intelligent people is to belittle or condescend or to show arrogance toward their beliefs.

The illegality of cannabis is outrageous, an impediment to full utilization of a drug which helps produce the serenity and insight, sensitivity and fellowship so desperately needed in this increasingly mad and dangerous world.

But I could be wrong.

I would be very ashamed of my civilization if we did not try to find out if there is life in outer space.

Extinction is the rule. Survival is the exception.