Science, pure science, is leading us in a sense astray…
“Science, pure science, is leading us in a sense astray. Leading us astray with the idea that everybody has got to have everything that they want even if it means polluting the entire environment. It is a case of lets just keep one or two canisters of the smallpox virus because we'll never know when we might need it. Science is becoming very much a Dark Power, in many ways.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Science can be misused to justify harmful pursuits, turning it into a tool of domination rather than benefit.
In simple terms: Science misused can harm rather than help.
Key Takeaway
Question intentions, prioritize ethics.
Themes
ethics
misuse
environment
power
responsibility
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
philosophical
policy
When to use this quote
- policy making
- research funding
- public health
Key Concepts
technological determinism
moral hazard
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards should govern scientific research?
- How to balance innovation with environmental protection?
A Different Perspective
Science can become a dangerous force without ethical limits.