Carl Sagan remarks that he is often asked whether he believes there is intelligent life out there. He leans towards a cautious yes, but says it with humility and uncertainty. Often, I’m asked next, ‘What do you really think?’ I say, ‘I just told you what I really think.’ ‘Yes, but what’s your gut feeling?’ But I try not to think with my gut. If I’m serious about understanding the world, thinking with anything besides my brain, as tempting as that might be, is likely to get me into trouble. Really, it’s okay to reserve judgement until the evidence is in. Mistrust of inner, private revelation
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