Every kid starts out as a natural-born scientist, and then we beat it out of them.
Meaning
Sagan said this in a 1996 interview about how schooling can smother children's instinctive curiosity. Young kids ask endless questions and test the world with their hands. Try protecting that habit: answer a child's "why" with "let's find out together" instead of a quick fact, and keep asking your own questions.
Source: Psychology Today interview (1996)
About the author
(1934–1996) was an American astronomer, astrophysicist, and science communicator who made complex scientific ideas accessible to the public. He is best known for the television series "Cosmos," which inspired millions to explore the wonders of the universe. Sagan contributed to planetary science, including research on Venus and Mars, and played a role in the search for extraterrestrial life. His writing combined scientific accuracy with poetic expression, making science both informative and inspiring. Carl Sagan’s work continues to promote curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for the cosmos and humanity’s place within it.
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