The most important lesson in the writing trade is that any manuscript is improved if you cut away the fat.
Robert A. HeinleinRead
Anyone who cannot cope with mathematics is not fully human. At best, he is a tolerable subhuman who has learned to wear his shoes, bathe, and not make messes in the house.
Interpretation
Mathematics is essential for fully developing human intellect and capabilities.
This quote by Robert A. Heinlein emphasizes the importance of mathematics in human life and intellect. It suggests that the ability to cope with mathematical concepts is a fundamental aspect of being fully human, indicating that those who struggle with it are lacking in a vital dimension of understanding and reasoning, akin to merely existing without truly engaging with one's potential.
In practice
In a speech about the importance of STEM education, this quote can highlight the value of mathematics.
The most important lesson in the writing trade is that any manuscript is improved if you cut away the fat.
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... bums on the outside, libraries inside.
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Something stopped me in school a little bit. Anything that I'm not interested in, I can't even feign interest.
We give people fish. We teach them to fish. We tear down the walls that have been built up around the fish pond. And we figure out who polluted it.
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