Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson Stuns College Graduates With Crucial Advice

Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson is a brilliant astrophysicist, cosmologist, author, and is the Director of the Hayden Planetarium plus he hosts his own radio show titled, "StarTalk Radio." I've seen him speak and I've read his books, "Origins," and "Space Chronicles."

Tyson recently gave the commencement address at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and dropped some eye opening life lessons.

1. Don't Worry About Your GPA (grade point average) - He said, "In life, your GPA becomes totally irrelevant. Real life doesn't care about your GPA. Don't let it define you."

2. The Real Dangers of Society - "The most dangerous people in a free society are those that don't know, but think you do know and have power over legislation that would affect others."

3. Science Matters - "The caveman and cavewoman had fresh air, fresh water, and free range food, yet their life expectancy was 35. Innovations in science and technology have improved health, wealth, and your well being. Before you start saying, "I don't like science. I don't need science." Well then move on back to the cave!"

4. On Human Ingenuity - "Never forget that the earth is really good at killing you. Ninety-seven percent of all species on Earth are now exctinct. It's our ingenuity, in spite of that fact, that prevents it."

5. The Truth About the American Dream - "We live in a world where not everyone has an urge to help others. It's OK to encourage others to pull themselves up by their bootstraps, but try to remember that some people have no boots."

6. It's Not the Politicians, It's You - "If you have an issue with politicians, it's because you have an issue with your fellow citizens who put them there. So if there is a politician who is sure the universe is 6,000 years old, it's because there are people walking among us who believe that. The laws of physics affects us all whether or not you believe in them."

This really smart guy is the only astrophysicist who can explain the complicated order of the universe and the laws of physics to normal everyday people. Read his stuff! It's simply fascinating!