How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph) Note that chapters aren't numbered, so need to be numbered manually, 1 to 14.
Quote #4
"We think of ourselves as the Knights of the Holy Contact. This is another lie. We are only seeking Man. We have no need of other worlds. We need mirrors. We don't know what to do with other worlds." (6.90)
Snow is saying here that not only can't human beings ever find anything in the universe but themselves, but they don't want to. Exploration isn't a quest for knowledge; it's a quest for the chance to stare at your own toes wiggling. If you ever find something really alien, you'll be confused and frightened; if you explore, it's to find yourself.
Quote #5
The human mind is only capable of absorbing a few things at a time. We see what is taking place in front of us in the here and now, and cannot envisage simultaneously a succession of processes, no matter how integrated and complementary. (8.75)
Exploration is limited by the explorer. The universe is one giant Jack Nicholson shouting, "You can't handle the truth!"
Quote #6
"You don't love her. You do love her. She is willing to give her life. So are you. It's touching, it's magnificent, anything you like, but it's out of place here—it's the wrong setting." (10.96)
Snow is arguing that in space, the rules of morality have broken down; love has no meaning. Out here on the borders of civilization, new rules apply, tough rules, explorers' rules. It's not clear if we're supposed to believe Snow or not, though. Is he right that social rules have broken down? Or is Lem making fun of violent sci-fi stories where the heroes murder and generally act un-heroically and it's okay because they're explorers?