Science cannot be stopped. Man will gather knowledge no matter what the consequences - and we cannot predict what they will be. Science will go on - whether we are pessimistic, or are optimistic, as I am. I know that great, interesting, and valuable discoveries can be made and will be made: But I know also that still more interesting discoveries will be made that I have not the imagination to describe - and I am awaiting them, full of curiosity and enthusiasm.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Pauling asserts that science will inevitably continue despite consequences, driven by human curiosity.
- In plain terms
- Science cannot be stopped and will continue to make discoveries.
- What can you take from it?
- Scientific progress continues regardless of optimism or pessimism.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can science ever truly be stopped?
Another view
Unpredictable consequences of science may be harmful.
More from Linus Pauling
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