I'm not creating the universe. I'm creating a model of the universe, which may or may not be true.

Physics has entered a remarkable era. Ideas that were once the realm of science fiction are now entering our theoretical — and maybe even experimental — grasp. Brand-new theoretical discoveries about extra dimensions have irreversibly changed how particle physicists, astrophysicists, and cosmologists now think about the world. The sheer number and pace of discoveries tells us that we've most likely only scratched the surface of the wondrous possibilities that lie in store. Ideas have taken on a life of their own.

Both religions and musicals work best with energetic and committed believers. Cynicism or detachment would have destroyed the magic - something true of religion, too.

There is real confusion about what it means to be right and wrong - the difference between what spiritual beliefs are and what science is.

All the normal matter in the Milky Way disc is denser than the dark matter that surrounds it.

I considered going into business or becoming a lawyer - not for the money, but for the thrill of problem-solving.

Maybe dark matter is denser than we usually assume, kind of like the Milky Way plane.