But when we crave power over life—endless wealth…
““But when we crave power over life—endless wealth, unassailable safety, immortality—then desire becomes greed. And if knowledge allies itself to that greed, then comes evil. Then the balance of the world is swayed, and ruin weighs heavy in the scale.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Desiring absolute control, wealth, safety, or immortality turns desire into greed, and when knowledge serves that greed it creates evil, upsetting the world’s balance.
In simple terms: Wanting total power becomes greed, leading to evil and imbalance.
Key Takeaway
Beware the corrupting lure of limitless ambition.
Themes
power
greed
knowledge
balance
evil
Mood
cautionary
reflective
Type
moral
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- technological development
- personal ambition
- environmental policy
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What limits should society set on the pursuit of power?
- How can knowledge be used responsibly?
A Different Perspective
Unchecked ambition can also inspire innovation and progress, not just ruin.