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Science fiction. You're right, it's crazy. In fact, it's even worse than that, it's nuts. You wanna hear something really nutty? I heard of a couple guys who wanna build something called an airplane, you know you get people to go in, and fly around like birds, it's ridiculous, right? And what about breaking the sound barrier, or rockets to the moon? Atomic energy, or a mission to Mars? Science fiction, right? Look, all I'm asking is for you to just have the tiniest bit of vision. You know, to just sit back for one minute and look at the big picture. To take a chance on something that just might end up being the most profoundly impactful moment for humanity, for the history: of history.

Carl Sagan#33

ScienceHumanityFutureTechnologyInnovationVision

About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker urges us to imagine bold, visionary ideas—like flying machines and space travel—as potentially transformative for humanity.
In plain terms
Think big and consider daring ideas that could change history.
What can you take from it?
Allow yourself to envision far‑reaching possibilities.

Where it applies

  • planning new technology
  • strategic foresight

Putting it to work

  • brainstorming sessions
  • future‑scenario planning

Questions to consider

  • What would you try if resources were unlimited?
  • How do you balance vision with realism?

Another view

Visionary ideas can be impractical or unattainable without resources.

More from Carl Sagan

  1. We are a way for the universe to know itself.

    Permalink to quote #32
  2. In the fabric of space and in the nature of matter, as in a great work of art, there is, written small, the artist's signature.

    Permalink to quote #34
  3. Observation: I can't see a thing. Conclusion: Dinosaurs.

    Permalink to quote #31

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