The truth is that the actresses supposedly have to get operated on and go through cosmetic surgery.

There was very much a real feel that we probably pretty much discovered every major fossil field in Africa. And in fact, some scientists even wrote that down at the turn of the millennia. It wasn’t a great time to be proposing to explore and push new, because we hadn’t succeeded, theoretically, being given the chance. All the big discoveries were in old sites. ... I was still an extraordinary believer in that there was more out there to be discovered. I just wasn’t demonstrating.

I think it's … the profession is starting to realise that in part it's the general climate, and the way we treat each other is not conducive for having more women in the profession. It's not just about promotion but it's about the general environment and how people talk to each other and address each other in seminars and things like that, that we need to work on a culture that is more respectful and that will be more acceptable for many women who think that they don't want to play the games of shouting at each other.

Some writers claim to extrude a book at an even rate like toothpaste from a tube, or to build a story like a wall, so many feet per day. They sit at their desk and knock off their word quota, then frisk into their leisured evening, preening themselves. This is so alien to me that it might be another trade entirely.

I would say just start, but don’t start by asking, “What is my purpose? What is my passion?” Start by asking, “What are the problems that need to be solved? Which ones attract me?” And take a step toward that. Take one step, and the work will teach you where you need to take the next step. Build tools in your toolbox.

A new generation that is determined to use the tools of capitalism without being controlled by it. To solve big problems of poverty and of the environment. We now have more tools, skills, understanding, and awareness than ever in history—so solving those problems is within our reach.

That human beings are selfish. I don’t believe it. We have angels and monsters inside each of us. What we need to do better as a society is create systems and opportunities to bring out our most generous.

Email. Or call a good friend. Reading this reminds me that I should instead read poetry. Or write.

I think I did always want to change the world from the time I was six. And I guess that was part of both the positive and the pressure.

My ability to connect with people. I think I can see people and they feel it.