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More and more Americans feel threatened by runaway…

“More and more Americans feel threatened by runaway technology, by large-scale organization, by overcrowding. More and more Americans are appalled by the ravages of industrial progress, by the defacement of nature, by man-made ugliness. If our society continues at its present rate to become less…” quote by John W. Gardner
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“More and more Americans feel threatened by runaway technology, by large-scale organization, by overcrowding. More and more Americans are appalled by the ravages of industrial progress, by the defacement of nature, by man-made ugliness. If our society continues at its present rate to become less livable as it becomes more affluent, we promise all to end up in sumptuous misery.”

John W. Gardner

About This Quote

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

He warns that unchecked technological and industrial growth threatens livability, leading to a paradox of wealth and misery.

In simple terms: Unchecked progress harms quality of life.

Key Takeaway

Balance growth with sustainability.

Themes

environment technology societal health

Mood

concerned serious

Type

philosophical warning

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • policy making
  • community activism

Key Concepts

industrialization sustainability quality of life

Questions to Reflect On

  • What policies can curb harmful tech expansion?
  • How can societies prioritize livability over profit?
A Different Perspective

Economic growth can still cause environmental harm if not managed.

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