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So, like I said, these are a bunch of really sweet guys…

“So, like I said, these are a bunch of really sweet guys, but you wouldn't want to share a Galaxy with them, not if they're just gonna keep at it, not if they're not gonna learn to relax a little. I mean it's just gonna be continual nervous time, isn't it, right? Pow, pow, pow, when are they next…” quote by Douglas Adams
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““So, like I said, these are a bunch of really sweet guys, but you wouldn't want to share a Galaxy with them, not if they're just gonna keep at it, not if they're not gonna learn to relax a little. I mean it's just gonna be continual nervous time, isn't it, right? Pow, pow, pow, when are they next coming at us? Peaceful coexistence is just right out, right? Get me some water somebody, thank you." He sat back and sipped reflectively. OK," he said, "hear me, hear me. It's, like, these guys, you know, are entitled to their own view of the Universe. And according to their view, which the Universe forced on them, right, they did right. Sounds crazy, but I think you'll agree. They believe in ..." He consulted a piece of paper which he found in the back pocket of his Judicial jeans. They believe in 'peace, justice, morality, culture, sport, family life, and the obliteration of all other life forms'.””

Douglas Adams

About This Quote

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

The speaker sat that overly idealistic groups can become oppressive, turning peace into perpetual tension and conflict.

In simple terms: Idealistic groups may become oppressive.

Key Takeaway

Beware of dogmatic zeal.

Themes

idealism conflict power dynamics human nature societal tension

Mood

anxious critical reflective

Type

philosophical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • political movements
  • religious sects
  • corporate cultures
  • online communities
  • activist groups

Key Concepts

authoritarianism groupthink psychology philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance ideals with flexibility?
  • What safeguards prevent idealistic groups from becoming oppressive?
A Different Perspective

Idealism alone cannot guarantee harmony; power structures can corrupt.

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