Conflict between some higher-order curvature invariant terms

Abstract A viable quantum theory does not allow curvature invariant terms of different higher orders to be accommodated in the gravitational action. We show that there is indeed a conflict between the curvature squared and Gauss-Bonnet squared terms from the point of view of hermiticity. This means one should choose either, in addition to the Einstein-Hilbert term, but never the two together. We explore early cosmic evolution with Gauss-Bonnet squared term.