“We live in a bewildering world.”
- January 8, 1942 – March 14, 2018
- British
- Theoretical physicist, science writer
- Announced the black hole singularity theorem and Hawking radiation, and contributed to the popularization of science with his book “Talking about the Universe”
Quote
“We live in a bewildering world.”
Explanation
In this brief yet profound statement, Stephen Hawking captures the mystery and complexity of the universe we inhabit. The word “bewildering” suggests that the world—both in terms of the natural world and the cosmos—is filled with phenomena that are difficult to fully comprehend or explain. For Hawking, this was not a cause for despair, but rather an invitation to inquiry and discovery. The more we learn about the universe, the more we realize how much there is still to understand. From the deepest questions of existence, such as the nature of time, space, and gravity, to the intricacies of the universe’s origins and structure, the world around us can feel like an overwhelming and unfathomable puzzle.
Hawking’s own work in theoretical physics, particularly in his studies of black holes, the Big Bang, and quantum mechanics, was driven by a desire to make sense of this bewildering world. While many might have been daunted by the vastness and complexity of these topics, Hawking found beauty in the mystery. He believed that science and reason could help unlock the answers to some of the most perplexing questions about reality, and in doing so, provide a deeper understanding of our place in the universe. His life’s work was a testament to the idea that, while the world may seem bewildering, curiosity, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge offer ways to make sense of it.
On a more personal level, Hawking’s quote could also reflect his own experience with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), a disease that left him physically incapacitated, yet he continued to probe the most profound questions about the universe. Despite facing a devastating diagnosis, he viewed life with a sense of wonder and a desire to explore the unknown. This attitude highlights the resilience of the human spirit in confronting the bewildering nature of life itself. In a world full of uncertainties and complexities, Hawking’s work and attitude towards life remind us that understanding, even if incomplete, can offer clarity in an otherwise bewildering world.
