"I think computer viruses should count as life. I think it says something about human nature that the only form of life we have created so far is purely destructive. We've created life in our own image"
- Stephen Hawking
About this Quote
In this quote, Stephen Hawking is expressing his belief that computer viruses need to be considered a kind of life. He recommends that this concept shows something about human nature, as the only kind of life we have had the ability to create so far is one that is exclusively focused on triggering harm and damage. Hawking also suggests that this may be a reflection of how we see ourselves, as we have produced something that mirrors our own damaging propensities. This quote highlights the prospective repercussions of our actions and the need for us to consider the impact of our productions on the world around us.
"Life is life - whether in a cat, or dog or man. There is no difference there between a cat or a man. The idea of difference is a human conception for man's own advantage"