a way forward and upward, despite feeling like it's too late for the US

The Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark by Carl Sagan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

2025:
I wanted to re-read this book, and it was worth it. Sagan presents such a rational and reasoned argument for the scientific method in every area of our lives. Upon my original reading, i thought he went overboard on the alien abduction stuff, but in 2025 with Q-anon and other conspiracies not only having widespread support, but actually driving political discourse and outcomes, the parallels are clear, still very relevant. And then the last two chapters blew me away, reading them after the start of the 2nd Trump term in the US and reading Sagan and Druyan, written in the early 1990's, describe the collapsing state of the US as if they wrote it today. Chilling. As always Sagan's intellect and wisdom illuminates the darkness and offers us a way forward and upward, despite feeling like it's too late for the US.

my 2014 review:
Finishing this book leaves me with a profound sense of loss realizing that Dr. Sagan is no longer with us. His voice is needed more than ever today in all areas of our society and lives. He lends such great knowledge and especially wisdom to all the subjects covered in this book. Our world would be a better place if more people had access to this book. I heartily recommend it as required reading. Spend some time learning at the feet of a true master. He was a prophet to our world, and i'm grateful he has left some of his wisdom and knowledge behind to be taken to heart.

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