Statistically, the probability of any of us being here is so small that youd think the mere fact of existing would keep us all in contented dazzlement of surprise. – Lewis Thomas
We are, perhaps, uniquely among the earths creatures, the worrying animal. We worry away our lives, fearing the future, discontent with the present, unable to take in the idea of dying, unable to sit still. – Lewis Thomas
I dont want to be reincarnated, thats for sure. When youve had rewarding experiences in your life – a loving family, friends – you dont need additional reassurances that youre going to do something with a new cast of characters. Id just as soon pass. – Lewis Thomas
Very few recognize science as the high adventure it really is, the wildest of all explorations ever taken by human beings, the chance to glimpse things never seen before, the shrewdest maneuver for discovering how the world works. – Lewis Thomas
After all, facts are facts, and although we may quote one to another with a chuckle the words of the Wise Statesman, “Lies – damned lies – and statistics,” still there are some easy figures the simplest must understand, and the astutest cannot wriggle out of. – Leonard Courtney, speech, August 1895, New York, "To My Fellow-Disciples at