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Mankind are more indebted to industry than ingenuity; the…

“Mankind are more indebted to industry than ingenuity; the gods set up their favors at a price, and industry is the purchaser.” quote by Joseph Addison
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“Mankind are more indebted to industry than ingenuity; the gods set up their favors at a price, and industry is the purchaser.”

Joseph Addison

About This Quote

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

Industry provides tangible benefits at a cost, unlike pure ingenuity which is free but less practical.

In simple terms: Industry costs money but yields results; ingenuity is free but less useful.

Key Takeaway

Balance creativity with practical application.

Themes

economics philosophy technology

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • business planning
  • policy making
  • personal projects

Key Concepts

cost-benefit analysis innovation resource allocation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What is the price of progress?
  • When should we prioritize industry over ideas?
A Different Perspective

Ingenuity alone may not solve real problems.

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