“The stupendous time spans of the evolutionary past are now part of com...” — Martin Rees Quote

“The stupendous time spans of the evolutionary past are now part of common culture (though maybe not in the United States Bible Belt, nor in parts of the Islamic world). Most people are at ease with the idea that our present biosphere is the outcome of four billion years of Darwinian evolution.”

“It is foolish to claim, as some do, that emigration into space offers a long-term escape from Earth's problems. Nowhere in our solar system offers an environment even as clement as the Antarctic or the top of Everest.”

“It is mistaken to claim that global problems will be solved more quickly if only researchers would abandon their quest to understand the universe and knuckle down to work on an agenda of public or political concerns. These are not 'either/or' options - indeed, there is a positive symbiosis between them.”

“The scientific issues that engage people most are the truly fundamental ones: is the universe infinite? Is life just a sideshow in the cosmos? What happened before the Big Bang? Everyone is flummoxed by such questions, so there is, in a sense, no gulf between experts and the rest.”

“Some of the 'aha' insights that scientists strive for may have to await the emergence of post-human intellects.”

“I'm going to take it step by step to get my belt.”

“I've a belt that I have worn for every single stand-up comedy session since I was 19. I fear if I ever lose it, my career would crumble. That's my one OCD.”

“This fight is something I've been working towards for 10, 12 or 15 years, since I first started competing, not even competing, just training in Mixed Martial Arts. This is a dream of mine, and to fight Georges St-Pierre in his hometown for the undisputed belt, it's surreal and an opportunity of a lifetime for me.”

“When it comes to a title fight, if I will fight Jon Jones one day, if he's still the champ, I will be more than ready for it. I will take home the belt.”

“You have to take the belt, and I dont give my opponents a chance to take my belt. I go out there and take away their opportunity to take my belt away from me.”

“When the opportunity for a title shot presents itself, I'm going to be there. I'm going secure that spot and try to win the belt.”