The problem is that too often the only people who can act don't want change. Power doesn't so much corrupt as it breeds conservatism.

It is not faith per se that creates the problem; it is conviction, the notion that one cannot be wrong, that opposing views are necessarily invalid and may even be intolerable.

But, come to think of it, there was no need to wait. Time travelers don't have to wait for anybody.

Man has always seen himself the peak of creation. The part of the universe that thinks. The purpose for it all. It's no doubt a gratifying view, but the universe may have a different opinion.

Talking with most people usually involves a search for truth. Talking with congressmen is strictly special effects.

Certain types of decisions can be safely ignored. Some issues will go away with the passage of time, others will be so slow developing that the decision-makers will depart before the results of their neglect becomes manifest. Which brings us to the environment.

The measure of a civilization is in the courage, not of its soldiers, but of its bystanders.