The greatest weapons in the conquest of knowledge are an understanding mind and the inexorable curiosity that drives it on.

Until I became a published writer, I remained completely ignorant of books on how to write and courses on the subject ... they would have spoiled my natural style; made me observe caution; would have hedged me with rules.

Naturally, since [the Sumerians] didn't know what caused the flood anymore than we do, they blamed the gods. (That's the advantage of religion. You're never short an explanation for anything.)

Old people think young people haven't learned about love. Young people think old people have forgotten about love.

Intelligence is an accident of evolution, and not necessarily an advantage.

There is no merit to discipline under ideal circumstances. I must have it in the face of death or it is worthless.

However much the creationist leaders might hammer away at their scientific and philosophical points, they would be helpless and a laughing-stock if that were all they had. It is religion that recruits their squadrons. Tens of millions of Americans, who neither know nor understand the actual arguments for - of even against - evolution, march in the army of the night, their Bibles held high. And they are a strong and frightening force, impervious to, and immunized against, the feeble lance of mere reason.