“Science is not only a disciple of reason but, also, one of romance and passion.”
- 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
“Science is not only a disciple of reason but, also, one of romance and passion.”
Explanation
In this quote, Stephen Hawking captures the dual nature of science as both a rational pursuit and a deeply emotional and inspirational endeavor. On one hand, science is rooted in reason—it is driven by logical inquiry, empirical evidence, and the systematic pursuit of truth. It is a discipline of rigorous analysis, critical thinking, and objective observation. However, Hawking emphasizes that science is also about passion and romance—a pursuit that inspires awe, curiosity, and a sense of wonder about the universe.
For Hawking, the scientific quest is not merely a dry, technical activity, but something that stirs the human spirit. The search for understanding—whether it’s the nature of black holes, the origins of the universe, or the mysteries of quantum mechanics—is something that can evoke a sense of beauty, as much as it does intellect. This perspective aligns with his broader philosophy that science is not just about answering practical questions but also about uncovering the intricacies of the cosmos, which can be profoundly moving and transformative. The romance of science is seen in the excitement of discovery, the beauty of elegant theories, and the wonder that comes from understanding the vastness and complexity of the universe.
Hawking’s words also reflect the idea that the best scientists are not just technicians, but people who are deeply passionate about their work, who feel a profound connection to the questions they are exploring. For him, the pursuit of knowledge and discovery was as much about emotional engagement as it was about intellectual rigor. His own career, marked by a passionate drive to uncover the secrets of the universe despite his physical limitations, embodied this idea. He often spoke of the joy and fulfillment he found in his work, and how the sheer mystery of existence and the unknown provided a sense of purpose and meaning. In this sense, Hawking invites us to see science as a deeply human endeavor, one that blends the rational with the romantic, inspiring both intellect and emotion in equal measure.
