“I’m not afraid of death, but I’m in no hurry to die. I have so much I want to do first.”
- 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”
table of contents
Quote
“I’m not afraid of death, but I’m in no hurry to die. I have so much I want to do first.”
Explanation
In this quote, Stephen Hawking expresses a realistic yet determined attitude toward his own mortality. Despite living with ALS (motor neuron disease), a condition that significantly affected his physical health and prognosis, Hawking was not defined by fear of death. Instead, he focused on the things he still wanted to accomplish in life, reflecting his characteristic drive and curiosity. This mindset speaks to Hawking’s broader philosophy of life, where he continually prioritized his work, his passion for understanding the universe, and his desire to make a lasting impact. Rather than resigning to his condition or the inevitable, he chose to channel his energy into what he could still achieve, emphasizing the value of living fully even in the face of significant physical challenges.
Hawking’s perspective also touches on the human experience and our natural tendency to fear death, while simultaneously feeling a strong drive to fulfill our potential. His statement reflects the importance of legacy—the desire to contribute something meaningful before time runs out. Despite his illness, Hawking continued to work on advancing our understanding of the cosmos, writing books, giving lectures, and inspiring countless people with his resilience and intellect. His refusal to be “in a hurry to die” is a testament to his enduring commitment to his work, and to the idea that one should make the most of the time they have, regardless of life’s uncertainties.
Finally, Hawking’s quote also invites us to reflect on how we approach our own mortality. His openness about not fearing death, but also acknowledging the unfinished business of life, encourages a balanced perspective—one that accepts death as an inevitable part of existence, while still striving to make the most of the time we have left. It’s a message that reminds us to focus on what we can control: our actions, our ambitions, and our contributions to the world around us.
