Robert A. Heinlein

Robert Anson Heinlein (7 July, 1907 – 8 May, 1988) was one of the most popular authors of science fiction of the 20th Century.

A generation which ignores history has no past — and no future.

Sourced quotes

One can judge from experiment, or one can blindly accept authority. To the scientific mind, experimental proof is all important and theory is merely a convenience in description, to be junked when it no longer fits ...

• How can I possibly put a new idea into your heads, if I do not first remove your delusions?
  • "Doctor Pinero" in Life-Line (1939)

Simple: How can I tell you something new, if I do not first remove your illusions?

• One can judge from experiment, or one can blindly accept authority. To the scientific mind, experimental proof is all important and theory is merely a convenience in description, to be junked when it no longer fits. To the academic mind, authority is everything and facts are junked when they do not fit theory laid down by authority.
  • "Doctor Pinero" in Life-Line (1939)