Skip to content

He wants to see, he wants to know, only to see and know…

“He wants to see, he wants to know, only to see and know. I'm aware that it is this mentality, this curiosity, which is responsible for the hydrogen bomb and the imminent demise of civilization and that we would all be better off if we were still at the stone-worshipping stage. Though surely it is…” quote by Margaret Atwood
Download Open image
““He wants to see, he wants to know, only to see and know. I'm aware that it is this mentality, this curiosity, which is responsible for the hydrogen bomb and the imminent demise of civilization and that we would all be better off if we were still at the stone-worshipping stage. Though surely it is not this affable inquisitiveness that should be blamed.””

Margaret Atwood

About This Quote

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

Unchecked curiosity can create destructive technologies, yet not all inquisitiveness is blameworthy.

In simple terms: Curiosity can be both creative and dangerous.

Key Takeaway

Balance curiosity with ethical responsibility.

Themes

science ethics technology human nature

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • research labs
  • policy making
  • education
  • public debate

Key Concepts

responsibility innovation danger progress

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we channel curiosity for good?
  • What safeguards limit dangerous inventions?
A Different Perspective

Curiosity alone does not cause harm; context and intent matter.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Margaret Atwood

Explore all 2,072 Margaret Atwood quotes

More Bluebeard-s-egg quotes

Browse all 3 Bluebeard-s-egg quotes