Would you take a billion dollars, if as part of the deal…
“Would you take a billion dollars, if as part of the deal the Earth were made uninhabitable a year after your death? ... well, of course not; you care about your friends, above all your children, any grandchildren. But ... what if the deal calls for the planet to be poisoned a thousand years later? We feel strong obligations to generations in the near future - should we not feel the same way about our children's great-grandchildren and generations beyond them?”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Choosing short‑term gain that harms the planet raises moral duty to future generations, demanding stewardship beyond immediate profit.
In simple terms: We must consider long‑term planetary impact over personal wealth.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize planetary health over fleeting riches.
Themes
ethics
environment
future generations
wealth
Mood
thought‑provoking
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- investment decisions
- policy making
- personal finance
- legacy planning
Key Concepts
intergenerational justice
sustainability
Questions to Reflect On
- How would you weigh your wealth against future harm?
- What actions can reduce long‑term planetary risk?
A Different Perspective
Balancing present needs with distant futures is complex.