“I believe everyone should have a broad picture of how the universe operates and our place in it. It is a basic human desire. And it also puts our worries in perspective.”
- 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 believe everyone should have a broad picture of how the universe operates and our place in it. It is a basic human desire. And it also puts our worries in perspective.”
Explanation
In this quote, Stephen Hawking emphasizes the universal human desire for understanding the universe—how it functions and our place within it. He suggests that gaining a broad perspective of the cosmos not only satisfies a fundamental curiosity but also helps to alleviate personal anxieties by placing our daily worries in a much larger, more cosmic context. This reflects Hawking’s long-standing belief that science should be accessible to everyone, and that understanding the fundamentals of existence can help individuals gain a sense of perspective in the face of life’s challenges. For him, exploring the mysteries of the universe was not just the domain of scientists but a universal pursuit that could enrich the lives of all people.
Hawking’s assertion that it is a basic human desire to understand the universe draws attention to the deep, innate curiosity that drives human beings to look beyond their immediate surroundings and ask profound questions about existence and the nature of reality. This reflects the philosophical tradition of seeking knowledge about the universe, from ancient thinkers like Aristotle to modern scientists like himself. In modern society, where global challenges such as climate change, political strife, and technological disruption often dominate our concerns, Hawking’s point is especially poignant: by understanding the larger workings of the universe, individuals might gain a sense of calm or clarity that allows them to face personal and societal issues with greater resilience.
The quote resonates today as a reminder of the importance of broad education in fostering a sense of interconnectedness and perspective. With the rise of digital media, people can access vast amounts of scientific knowledge, making Hawking’s vision of an informed and curious public more achievable than ever. The idea that understanding cosmic phenomena can help us better cope with day-to-day struggles highlights the therapeutic power of knowledge and intellectual engagement, encouraging individuals to consider their worries within the context of the vast, mysterious universe we are all a part of.
