Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2022

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Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Preface-Overture

Chapters 1-3

Chapters 4-5

Chapters 6-8

Chapter 9-Coda

Key Figures

Themes

Index of Terms

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Beta

Discussion Questions

Background

Philosophical Context: A Cosmic Perspective

Neil deGrasse Tyson supports the idea of a cosmic perspective in lieu of world perspectives that focus on the human ego. To take a cosmic perspective is to look beyond the wants and needs of humans and consider the universe when forming one’s perception of reality. Shortsighted perceptions that center on ego lead to numerous social and political issues as people, institutions, and nations vie for superiority and access to natural and financial resources. These issues subsequently lead to environmental destruction, oppression, and violence. A cosmic perspective requires humility because it forces humans to accept that they are a miniscule part of the universe. However, a cosmic perspective is also spiritual and awe-inspiring, as it reminds humans how extraordinary Earth is and how precious it is for each person to exist within the universe.

A cosmic perspective, Tyson acknowledges, is a privilege. Many individuals are focused on surviving and caring for their families, and they do not have the time, energy, or education to view life through a cosmic perspective. Thus, it is crucial that those with such privilege, particularly those who hold political and social power, incorporate a cosmic perspective. Doing so will help solve numerous problems, such as hunger and poverty, meaning that the privilege of a cosmic perspective will be more accessible (Tyson, Neil deGrasse. “The Cosmic Perspective.” Natural History Magazine, 2007).

In Starry Messenger, Tyson illustrates what he means by a cosmic perspective by using numerous hypothetical and literal examples. He hypothesizes how a cosmic perspective would potentially impact society, focusing on various sociopolitical topics, including gender, race, war, and law. His text disseminates information about the cosmic perspective and aims to inspire others to accept this worldview.

Rhetorical Context: Science Literacy

Tyson criticizes the prevalence of science illiteracy among both the general public and political leaders. He depicts science literacy not as having knowledge of scientific information but as being able to use critical thinking skills and curiosity. Curiosity, he argues, is often quashed in childhood because caretakers tend to consistently tell children to stop when they are behaving disruptively. Tyson asserts that such behavior actually indicates that the children are experimenting with their environment. The modern educational system, which awards quiet conformity and high test scores, likewise discourages curiosity and punishes seemingly disruptive behavior, such as in young children who are not adept at sitting still at a desk and listening to a lecture. The learning process is more important than memorizing facts, Tyson poses. Thus, social expectations about children’s behavior and learning process must change in order to achieve widespread science literacy (Holmes, Linda. “Neil deGrasse Tyson on Literacy, Curiosity, Education, and Being ‘In Your Face.’” NPR, 2010).

For adults to develop science literacy, they need access to information about science. Starry Messenger is intended to help meet this need. Given the book’s content, Tyson’s target audience is adults who are interested in expanding their understanding of science and in learning about the relationship between science and society. Rather than using technical jargon, which is common in science literature, Tyson conveys his ideas in a more easily accessible way, using numerous linguistic choices and literary techniques to address a lay audience. By using relatively simple language and illustrative metaphors and examples, Tyson aims to reach those who are building their science literacy skills.