Do you think we're making a mistake?" snapped the Bishop…
““Do you think we're making a mistake?" snapped the Bishop. "Not at all," said Dom Cristao. "I think we've taken a step toward something truly magnificent. But humankind almost never forgives true greatness." "Fortunately," said the Bishop, "humankind isn't the judge that matters. And now I intend to pray for this boy, since medical science has obviously reached the boundary of its competence.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Characters discuss moral implications of scientific boundaries, forgiveness, and humanity’s judgment of greatness.
In simple terms: Great achievements often face moral dilemmas and societal judgment.
Key Takeaway
Balance ambition with ethical reflection.
Themes
ethics
science
humanity
Mood
thoughtful
philosophical
Type
literary
inspirational
When to use this quote
- research ethics committees
- public debates
- philosophical education
- policy making
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
technological limits
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities accompany groundbreaking discoveries?
- How should society judge extraordinary achievements?
A Different Perspective
Progress may outpace moral consensus, causing conflict.