Human dignity is better served by embracing knowledge.

Idealism is the highest form of reason.

Even in the world of molecules the civilising influence of modest restraints is a cause for rejoicing.

Scientia is knowledge. It is only in the popular mind that it is equated with facts.

A wise man in China asked his gardener to plant a shrub. The gardener objected that it only flowered once in a hundred years. "In that case," said the wise man, "plant it immediately." [On the importance of fundamental research.]

Though we explore in a culturally-conditioned way, the reality we sketch is universal.

Today, Academies of Science use their influence around the world in support of human rights.