War of the Satellites (1958)

Richard Devon: Dr. Pol Van Ponder

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Quotes 

• Dr. Pol Van Ponder : There's an old saying. "If you just want something, send someone for it. But if you really want it, go yourself".

• Dr. Pol Van Ponder : I won't ask anyone to take a risk I wouldn't take myself. I mean to captain my own ship.

• Dr. Pol Van Ponder : [on Sybil's query about the space message being written in Latin]  Well, why not Latin? Once, it was understood throughout the civilized world. Perhaps they think it still is.

• Dr. Pol Van Ponder : We're up against a race of beings whose intelligence is as ours to ants and bacteria.

• Dr. Pol Van Ponder : I have no desire to harm you. However, necessity governs action. The warning from outer space was valid. It came from a superior intelligence. An intelligence able to transform energy into matter, and back again. You once told me I was not human. You were correct. I am above the human. A transformation which can be yours. This satellite will never return to Earth. It's disintegration upon contact with the energy barrier will end Project Sigma, and all similar projects to come. The creatures of your planet are not yet ready for space.

  John Compo : Who are you to decide?

  Dr. Pol Van Ponder : We have only your best interest at heart. In the realm of outer space, you are mere children. And it is disastrous for children to enter areas where they have so little understanding. John, I can offer you the opportunity of joining us.

  John Compo : You can go to hell! I was born a human, and I'll die one before I'll join a race that kills innocent people for abstract ideas!

  Dr. Pol Van Ponder : Abstract ideas. Very well. You've made your decision. One I'm certain you'll deeply regret, for only death remains.

  [stops John's heart]