How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
Yes, of course duct tape works in a near-vacuum. Duct tape works anywhere. Duct tape is magic and should be worshipped. (17.50)
Jeez, Mark should just get a sponsorship deal already. We can already see the pitch: If duct tape is good enough for Mark Watney, then you can be darn tootin' it's good enough for you! Jokes aside, this passage shows that the most useful technology isn't always the flashiest.
Quote #8
I tested the brackets by hitting them with rocks. This kind of sophistication is what we interplanetary scientist are known for. (18.107)
Once again, we watch Mark achieve some high-minded scientific goals though some very primitive techniques. If we get nothing else from The Martian, it's that science isn't about laboratories or equations—it's about getting your hands dirty and making things work.
Quote #9
"It just goes to show," Teddy said. "Love of science is universal across all cultures." (19.58)
Would we kill the mood by bumping "Give Peace a Chance" at maximum volume? Seriously though, Mark would never have made it home if it weren't for the bond between NASA and the CNSA—a bond created by a mutual love of science.