Think of how many religions attempt to validate themselves with prophecy. Think of how many people rely on these prophecies, however vague, however unfulfilled, to support or prop up their beliefs. Yet has there ever been a religion with the prophetic accuracy and reliability of science? … No other human institution comes close.

Carl Sagan (1934-1996) American scientist and writer

The Demon-Haunted World, ch. 1 “The Most Precious Thing” (1995)