Ere many generations pass, our machinery will be driven by…
“Ere many generations pass, our machinery will be driven by a power obtainable at any point of the universe. This idea is not novel... We find it in the delightful myth of Antaeus, who derives power from the earth; we find it among the subtle speculations of one of your splendid... Throughout space there is energy. Is this energy static or kinetic! If static our hopes are in vain; if kinetic - and this we know it is, for certain - then it is a mere question of time when men will succeed in attaching their machinery to the very wheelwork of nature.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Tesla argues that universal energy exists everywhere and can be harnessed if understood as kinetic rather than static, enabling limitless power for humanity.
In simple terms: Energy is everywhere; we must learn to use its motion.
Seek kinetic energy sources.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- industrial development
- space exploration
- renewable power
- technological research
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we differentiate usable kinetic energy from background motion?
- What ethical issues arise from limitless power?
Assuming kinetic energy can be easily captured may overlook practical constraints.