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But you must not change one thing, one pebble, one grain…

“But you must not change one thing, one pebble, one grain of sand, until you know what good and evil will follow on that act. The world is in balance, in Equilibrium. A wizard's power of Changing and Summoning can shake the balance of the world. It is dangerous, that power...It must follow…” quote by Ursula K. Le Guin
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“But you must not change one thing, one pebble, one grain of sand, until you know what good and evil will follow on that act. The world is in balance, in Equilibrium. A wizard's power of Changing and Summoning can shake the balance of the world. It is dangerous, that power...It must follow knowledge, and serve need.”

Ursula K. Le Guin

About This Quote

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

One should not act impulsively with powerful forces without understanding their moral consequences, as balance can be disrupted.

In simple terms: Think before using great power; consider outcomes.

Key Takeaway

Act responsibly with influence.

Themes

ethics power balance

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political decision making
  • technological deployment
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

Moral philosophy consequentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What knowledge is required before wielding influence?
  • How do you assess potential good vs. evil outcomes?
A Different Perspective

Power can be misused despite good intentions.

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