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So many new ideas are at first strange and horrible though…

“So many new ideas are at first strange and horrible though ultimately valuable that a very heavy responsibility rests upon those who would prevent their dissemination.” quote by John B. S. Haldane
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“So many new ideas are at first strange and horrible though ultimately valuable that a very heavy responsibility rests upon those who would prevent their dissemination.”

John B. S. Haldane

About This Quote

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

Innovative ideas often seem odd or frightening initially, yet they hold great value; suppressing them imposes a heavy moral burden.

In simple terms: Strange ideas can be valuable; stopping them is a responsibility.

Key Takeaway

Protect new ideas.

Themes

innovation responsibility intellectual freedom

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • technology development
  • policy making

Key Concepts

science creativity social progress

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance caution with openness to novelty?
  • What responsibilities do we have toward unconventional thinkers?
A Different Perspective

Societal fear can hinder progress.

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