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About this quote

What does it mean?
Humans are tasked with observing life's wonder and contributing to the universe. Reaching other stars grants a form of immortality.
In plain terms
We exist to witness life and give back to the universe, gaining immortality by reaching new stars.
What can you take from it?
Explore space to preserve human legacy.

Where it applies

  • motivational speeches
  • space policy debates

Putting it to work

  • inspire space education
  • fund interstellar research

Questions to consider

  • What does it mean to leave a legacy?
  • Is exploration a moral obligation?

Another view

Immortality through space travel is speculative and technologically distant.

More from Ray Bradbury

  1. Recreate the world in your own image and make it better for your having been here.

    Permalink to quote #8
  2. The gift of life is so precious that we should feel an obligation to pay back the universe for the gift of being alive.

    Permalink to quote #10
  3. My job is to help you fall in love.

    Permalink to quote #7

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