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Our western science is a child of moral virtues; and it…

“Our western science is a child of moral virtues; and it must now become the father of further moral virtues if its extraordinary material triumphs in our time are not to bring human history to an abrupt, unpleasant and discreditable end.” quote by Arnold J. Toynbee
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“Our western science is a child of moral virtues; and it must now become the father of further moral virtues if its extraordinary material triumphs in our time are not to bring human history to an abrupt, unpleasant and discreditable end.”

Arnold J. Toynbee

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Scientific progress must be guided by ethical values, otherwise it risks causing societal collapse.

In simple terms: Science needs morality to avoid disaster.

Key Takeaway

Align research with ethical goals.

Themes

ethics science future humanity

Mood

concerned reflective

Type

philosophical warning

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • research funding
  • education curricula
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

moral philosophy technological responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure scientific advances serve humanity?
  • What mechanisms can embed ethics in research?
A Different Perspective

Moral guidance is hard to enforce universally.

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