“We think we have solved the mystery of creation. Maybe we should patent the universe and charge everyone royalties for their existence.”
- 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 think we have solved the mystery of creation. Maybe we should patent the universe and charge everyone royalties for their existence.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Stephen Hawking’s wit and his ability to blend deep scientific insight with humor. By suggesting that the universe could be “patented” and charged royalties, he playfully comments on the human drive to own, control, and profit from knowledge, which is often seen in the context of intellectual property in modern society. It also underscores the absurdity of trying to claim ownership over something as vast and complex as the universe, something beyond human control.
Hawking’s view of the universe was that it operates according to a set of underlying laws of physics, and while human beings can understand these laws, they do not have the power to control or monopolize them. The reference to “solving the mystery of creation” is likely a tongue-in-cheek remark on the theoretical frameworks in cosmology, like the Big Bang theory or M-theory, which attempt to explain the origins of the universe. While we have made significant progress in understanding the cosmos, Hawking often pointed out that the mystery of creation remains elusive, with many questions still left unanswered.
