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Please don't make the mistake of thinking that 'Oryx and…

“Please don't make the mistake of thinking that 'Oryx and Crake' is anti-science. Science is a way of knowing, and a tool. Like all ways of knowing and tools, it can be turned to bad uses. And it can be bought and sold, and it often is. But it is not in itself bad. Like electricity, it's neutral.” quote by Margaret Atwood
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“Please don't make the mistake of thinking that 'Oryx and Crake' is anti-science. Science is a way of knowing, and a tool. Like all ways of knowing and tools, it can be turned to bad uses. And it can be bought and sold, and it often is. But it is not in itself bad. Like electricity, it's neutral.”

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.

Science is a neutral tool; its moral value depends on how humans apply it.

In simple terms: Science itself is neutral.

Key Takeaway

Use science responsibly.

Themes

ethics technology responsibility

Mood

thoughtful cautious

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • education
  • research funding
  • public health

Key Concepts

dual-use dilemma scientific literacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we ensure scientific advances benefit society?
  • What safeguards can prevent harmful applications?
A Different Perspective

Science can be misused despite its neutrality.

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