The history of exploration has never been driven by exploration. But Columbus himself was a discoverer. So was Magellan. But the people who wrote checks were not. They had other motivations. And there's Columbus - he couldn't even get Italy to pay for his voyage so he has to go to Spain.
Neil deGrasse TysonThe very nature of science is discoveries, and the best of those discoveries are the ones you don't expect.
Neil deGrasse TysonIt could be that these other civilizations, if they are far more advanced intellectually than we are, would not even measure our existence as a blip on the intelligence radar. They could be so advanced that we are to them what worms are to us.
Neil deGrasse TysonOdd how often blood is shed to obtain freedom from those in power. Oppressors must be the most insecure people in the world.
Neil deGrasse Tyson