The philosophies that have been inspired by scientific…
“The philosophies that have been inspired by scientific technique are power philosophies, and tend to regard everything non-human as mere raw material. Ends are no longer considered; only the skillfulness of the process is valued. This also is a form of madness. It is, in our day, the most dangerous form, and the one against which a sane philosophy should provide an antidote”
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 a purely technical, utilitarian approach to philosophy, treating non-human entities as mere resources, leads to ethical blindness and madness.
In simple terms: Treating nature only as resources is dangerous.
Key Takeaway
Balance technical progress with ethical consideration.
Themes
ethics
technology
philosophy
environment
humanity
Mood
concerned
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- environmental activism
- scientific research
- education curricula
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
anthropocentrism
eco-ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What ethical frameworks can guide scientific advancement?
- How can we value non‑human life in policy?
A Different Perspective
Pure efficiency can ignore long‑term consequences for ecosystems.