Had I right, for my own benefit, to inflict this curse…
““Had I right, for my own benefit, to inflict this curse upon everlasting generations? I had before been moved by the sophisms of the being I had created; I had been struck senseless by his fiendish threats; but now, for the first time, the wickedness of my promise burst upon me; I shuddered to think that future ages might curse me as their pest, whose selfishness had not hesitated to buy its own peace at the price, perhaps, of the existence of the whole human race.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The creator reflects on the moral weight of his creation, fearing future generations will blame him for the suffering caused by his selfish pursuit of peace.
In simple terms: Creator fears future blame for his selfish creation.
Key Takeaway
Consider the long‑term impact of your actions.
Themes
responsibility
ethics
creation
legacy
hubris
Mood
reflective
somber
Type
philosophical
cautionary
When to use this quote
- scientific research
- technological development
- political decisions
- environmental policy
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
consequences
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance personal ambition with societal harm?
- Can you foresee unintended consequences of your innovations?
A Different Perspective
The quote assumes personal guilt without accounting for collective agency.