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Human tool-makers always make tools that will help us get…

“Human tool-makers always make tools that will help us get what we want, and what we want hasn't changed for thousands of years because as far as we can tell the human template hasn't changed either. We still want the purse that will always be filled with gold, and the Fountain of Youth. We want…” quote by Margaret Atwood
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““Human tool-makers always make tools that will help us get what we want, and what we want hasn't changed for thousands of years because as far as we can tell the human template hasn't changed either. We still want the purse that will always be filled with gold, and the Fountain of Youth. We want the table that will cover itself with delicious food whenever we say the word, and that will be cleaned up afterwards by invisible servants. We want the Seven-League Boots so we can travel very quickly, and the Hat of Darkness so we can snoop on other people without being seen. We want the weapon that will never miss, and the castle that will keep us safe. We want excitement and adventure; we want routine and security. We want to have a large number of sexually attractive partners, and we also want those we love to love us in return, and be utterly faithful to us. We want cute, smart children who will treat us with the respect we deserve. We want to be surrounded by music, and by ravishing scents and attractive visual objects. We don't want to be too hot or too cold. We want to dance. We want to speak with the animals. We want to be envied. We want to be immortal. We want to be gods. But in addition, we want wisdom and justice. We want hope. We want to be good.””

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.

Humans consistently desire timeless comforts and fantasies, reflecting unchanging core needs despite technological change.

In simple terms: People want the same basic desires across ages.

Key Takeaway

Recognize enduring human motivations.

Themes

desire technology human nature fantasy security

Mood

reflective curious

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • product design
  • marketing
  • storytelling
  • policy making
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

psychology consumer behavior mythology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which of these desires drive your decisions?
  • How do modern tools shape ancient wishes?
A Different Perspective

Not all desires are practical or ethical to fulfill.

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