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We're told, often enough, that as a species we are poised…

“We're told, often enough, that as a species we are poised on the edge of the abyss. It's possible that our puffed-up, prideful intelligence has outstripped our instinct for survival and the road back to safety has already been washed away. In which case there's nothing much to be done. If there is…” quote by Arundhati Roy
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“We're told, often enough, that as a species we are poised on the edge of the abyss. It's possible that our puffed-up, prideful intelligence has outstripped our instinct for survival and the road back to safety has already been washed away. In which case there's nothing much to be done. If there is something to be done, then one thing is for sure: those who created the problem will not be the ones who come up with a solution.”

Arundhati Roy

About This Quote

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

Human hubris may outpace ecological limits, risking irreversible damage unless corrective action is taken.

In simple terms: Pride can endanger humanity’s future.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize sustainable choices.

Themes

environment hubris survival responsibility

Mood

urgent somber

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • education
  • community activism
  • business strategy

Key Concepts

ethics ecology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance progress with planetary health?
  • Who should lead the sustainability effort?
A Different Perspective

Economic pressures often resist change.

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