Andrei Sakharov Quotes

Our country, like every modern state, needs profound democratic reforms. It needs political and ideological pluralism, a mixed economy and protection of human rights and the opening up of society.

Both now and for always, I intend to hold fast to my belief in the hidden strength of the human spirit.

A country which does not respect the rights of its own citizens will not respect the rights of its neighbours

Do not trust governments more than governments trust their own people.

Intellectual freedom is the only guarantee of a scientific - democratic approach to politics, economic development, and culture.

Profound insights arise only in debate, with a possibility of counterargument, only when there is a possibility of expressing not only correct ideas but also dubious ideas.

You can't sit on two chairs at once.

In 1947 I defended my thesis on nuclear physics, and in 1948 I was included in a group of research scientists whose task was to develop nuclear weapons.

I could not stop something I knew was wrong and terrible. I had an awful sense of powerlessness.

I regard the death penalty as a savage and immoral institution that undermines the moral and legal foundations of society.

Profound thoughts arise only in debate, with a possibility of counterargument, only when there is a possibility of expressing not only correct ideas, but also dubious ideas.