In former days, men sold themselves to the Devil to…
“In former days, men sold themselves to the Devil to acquire magical powers. Nowadays they acquire those powers from science, and find themselves compelled to become devils. There is no hope for the world unless power can be tamed, and brought into the service, not of this or that group of fanatical tyrants, but of the whole human race, white and yellow and black, fascist and communist and democrat; for science has made it inevitable that all must live or all must die.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote warns that unchecked scientific power can become destructive, urging collective stewardship of technology for humanity's benefit.
In simple terms: Science must be controlled for all humanity.
Key Takeaway
Guide technology toward common good.
Themes
ethics
science
power
humanity
responsibility
Mood
cautious
reflective
urgent
Type
philosophical
political
warning
When to use this quote
- policy making
- global governance
- education
- research funding
- public discourse
Key Concepts
technological determinism
collective stewardship
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies ensure technology serves everyone?
- What safeguards prevent power from becoming tyrannical?
A Different Perspective
Science alone cannot guarantee moral outcomes without governance.