Skip to content

Science stands, a too competant servant, behind her…

“Science stands, a too competant servant, behind her wrangling underbred masters, holding out resources, devices, and remedies they are too stupid to use. ... And on its material side, a modern Utopia must needs present these gifts as taken.” quote by George Herbert
Download Open image
“Science stands, a too competant servant, behind her wrangling underbred masters, holding out resources, devices, and remedies they are too stupid to use. ... And on its material side, a modern Utopia must needs present these gifts as taken.”

George Herbert

About This Quote

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

Science is a capable servant but is misused by ignorant masters who fail to apply its benefits, leading to a false utopia that pretends to have already received those gifts.

In simple terms: Science is powerful yet misused by those who don’t understand it.

Key Takeaway

Ensure knowledge is applied wisely, not just possessed.

Themes

science misuse utopia

Mood

cautionary critical

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • education
  • public health
  • environmental planning
  • innovation

Key Concepts

knowledge technology ignorance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies prevent the misuse of scientific advances?
  • What responsibilities do scientists have to guide application?
A Different Perspective

Even with knowledge, human folly can waste its potential.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by George Herbert

Explore all 1,285 George Herbert quotes

More Accounts quotes

Browse all 2,677 Accounts quotes