“We are just an advanced breed of monkeys on a minor planet of a very average star. But we can understand the Universe. That makes us something very special.”
- 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 are just an advanced breed of monkeys on a minor planet of a very average star. But we can understand the Universe. That makes us something very special.”
Explanation
In this quote, Stephen Hawking highlights the humbling nature of human existence while also acknowledging the extraordinary achievement of our ability to understand the universe. The phrase “advanced breed of monkeys” underscores the insignificance of humanity in the grand scale of the cosmos. We are, in a sense, just one species among billions, living on a relatively insignificant planet orbiting an unremarkable star in the vastness of space.
Despite this, Hawking emphasizes our unique ability to comprehend the complexities of the universe, from the smallest subatomic particles to the largest cosmic structures. This ability to understand, explore, and explain the universe—through science, mathematics, and philosophy—sets us apart from other life forms. The fact that humans can formulate theories about the origins of the universe, the nature of time, and the fundamental forces of nature is a remarkable achievement that distinguishes us from other creatures.
Hawking’s statement also invites reflection on the fragility and preciousness of life. It suggests that while our planet and our species may be inconsequential in the vastness of space, our capacity for knowledge and curiosity is what makes humanity unique in the universe. In modern times, this perspective resonates with the importance of scientific exploration and inquiry, emphasizing that even as our species faces numerous existential challenges, our ability to comprehend the universe remains a defining characteristic of our special place in the cosmos.
