In this reflective passage from Michael Crichton's "The Lost World," the narrator speculates about the future perspective of humanity, suggesting that people will find current scientific beliefs, such as those surrounding photons and electrons, amusing. He anticipates that future generations will have developed new understandings, rendering past beliefs seemingly naive. This thought highlights the evolving nature of knowledge and how current truths may someday be viewed as outdated or even ridiculous.
Despite this contemplation of shifting beliefs, the narrator emphasizes the importance of tangible, sensory experiences. He points out the reality of nature, urging an appreciation for the simple joys of life: the movement of the sea, the scent of salt air, and the warmth of sunlight. These elements of existence are celebrated as truly significant, reminding readers that the essence of being alive and experiencing the world around us is a precious gift, far more important than abstract theories.