Follow your curiosity, and have the courage to meet the challenge. That's where science starts, in my opinion.

Tasuku Honjo’s quote emphasizes the importance of curiosity and courage as foundational elements in the pursuit of science. Honjo suggests that true scientific inquiry begins with a natural desire to explore and understand the world, driven by an individual's curiosity. This curiosity, however, requires courage — the willingness to face the unknown, tackle challenges, and confront uncertainties. In his view, science isn’t just about having the answers, but about the boldness to ask the right questions and push boundaries to discover new knowledge.

By encouraging people to "follow your curiosity," Honjo highlights the idea that the quest for knowledge is driven by an inner desire to learn, explore, and understand. Curiosity leads to innovation, as it sparks new ideas and drives individuals to investigate phenomena that have yet to be fully understood. However, as Honjo notes, curiosity alone isn’t enough; it must be coupled with the courage to face the difficulties that come with challenging established beliefs and venturing into unfamiliar territory.

Honjo’s words reflect his own experiences as a scientist, particularly his groundbreaking work in immunology, which led to his contribution to cancer research and the development of immunotherapy. As someone who has spent his life in the scientific field, Honjo understands firsthand the importance of persistence and resilience in science. His emphasis on curiosity and courage underscores how vital these qualities are to breakthroughs and advancing human understanding.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Honjo’s personal philosophy on scientific discovery. He views curiosity as the starting point of all scientific endeavors, where asking questions and seeking answers opens the door to new possibilities. His insight into the process of scientific discovery encourages others to embrace both the wonder of curiosity and the courage required to face the challenges that come with exploring the unknown.