I Miss Carl Sagan

Tuesday, September 27, 2005

As I sit here watching a revival of Cosmos, a series that premiered when I was in high school, I find myself nostalgic for Carl Sagan and his unique way of combining science and philosophy. He would be appalled today at the way philosophy -- at least, the religious type -- has pushed science away, doing its best to discredit it.
What would Carl say to "Intelligent Design?" I can only wonder.
Why has no one stepped up to fill Carl's admittedly large shoes, bringing science to the masses with style and intelligence?

posted by Gene Cowan in the category Life... Don't talk to me about life.
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I was lucky enough to actually see Carl Sagan speak in person at U.Va. many years ago. His talk moved me to tears.

Posted by T. Kevin on 09/28 at 09:53 AM

A friend and I saw him way back in the late 80s, and during his talk -- just about when he started talking about Venus being covered in seltzer water -- my friend made a bizarre gesture with his finger that make me laugh out loud. We were sitting in the front row, and Dr. Sagan gave me this disapproving look. I was horrified.
We stopped at McDonald's afterward, and were amused to note that the sign out front said "Billions and Billions" served.

Posted by Gene Cowan on 09/28 at 10:04 AM

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