If there's reason for hope, it lies in man's occasional binges of cooperation. To save our planet, we'll need that kind of heroic effort, in which all types of people join forces for the common good

I don't like the antagonism that most religions have for science, and freedom and, frankly, individuality. I do like the Dalai Lama.

Launching a new TV show is probably one of the most difficult things that a writer can do.

I tend to look at the world more from Voltaire's perspective. Incidentally, if you haven't read Candide lately, it's a fabulous book. It's riotously, laugh-out-loud funny in a way that no Shakespeare comedy will ever be.

There's a built-up tension in religion, and if you can release it, you'll get a huge and satisfying laugh.

I love that Voltaire was so willing to shock his readers with arbitrary cruelty. And I can completely relate to it.

I guess I'm drawn to religion because I can be provocative without harming something people really care about, like their cars.