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In past ages, the law governing the survival of the…

“In past ages, the law governing the survival of the fittest roughly weeded out the less desirable strains. Then man's new sense of pity began to interfere with the ruthless workings of nature. As a result, we continue to keep alive and to breed the unfit.” quote by Nikola Tesla
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“In past ages, the law governing the survival of the fittest roughly weeded out the less desirable strains. Then man's new sense of pity began to interfere with the ruthless workings of nature. As a result, we continue to keep alive and to breed the unfit.”

Nikola Tesla

About This Quote

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

Human compassion interferes with natural selection, leading to the survival of less adapted individuals.

In simple terms: Compassion opposes natural selection.

Key Takeaway

Balance compassion with practicality.

Themes

ethics evolution humanity

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • medical triage
  • social welfare policies
  • conservation efforts

Key Concepts

biology social responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should we prioritize compassion over efficiency?
  • How does this view affect modern bioethics?
A Different Perspective

Compassion can improve overall societal resilience despite biological inefficiencies.

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