“I think the human race doesn’t have a future if it doesn’t go into space.”
- 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
“I think the human race doesn’t have a future if it doesn’t go into space.”
Explanation
In this statement, Stephen Hawking emphasizes the importance of space exploration for the long-term survival of humanity. His assertion that the human race doesn’t have a future without venturing into space reflects his belief that planetary colonization is essential to the future survival of our species. Hawking often warned that Earth is vulnerable to a variety of existential risks, from nuclear war to environmental collapse, and that humanity must look beyond our home planet to ensure its continued existence. The idea of colonizing space is seen not only as a scientific and technological challenge but as a moral imperative, offering humanity a “backup plan” in case catastrophic events threaten life on Earth.
Hawking’s words also reflect his broader vision for the future of human innovation and exploration. He believed that space exploration would not only safeguard humanity from extinction but also push the boundaries of human achievement and knowledge. He often spoke about how venturing into space could lead to new technological advancements and discoveries that might improve life on Earth, as well as inspire new generations to pursue careers in science and engineering. In this sense, going into space represents more than just survival—it’s an opportunity to push the boundaries of what’s possible, to learn, and to grow as a species.
Finally, the quote ties into Hawking’s deep belief in the infinite potential of humanity. He saw space exploration as an avenue for humans to transcend their earthly limitations, both in terms of their physical existence and their intellectual capacity. He believed that the act of reaching for the stars could inspire a collective sense of purpose, and that humanity’s destiny was not to remain confined to one planet but to spread out across the cosmos, ensuring its long-term survival and contributing to the advancement of knowledge.