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but you're not a traitor, you've merely been the tool of…

“but you're not a traitor, you've merely been the tool of one. I don't punish tools. They do harm only in the hands of a bad workman.” quote by Ursula K. Le Guin
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““but you're not a traitor, you've merely been the tool of one. I don't punish tools. They do harm only in the hands of a bad workman.””

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.

Tools are neutral; misuse depends on the user’s intent, not the tool itself.

In simple terms: Tools aren’t evil; people are.

Key Takeaway

Judge the user, not the tool.

Themes

ethics responsibility technology agency morality

Mood

thought‑provoking reflective cautionary

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • software development
  • weapon design
  • educational resources
  • media platforms
  • medical devices

Key Concepts

philosophical literary social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we hold users accountable?
  • Can tools be designed to limit misuse?
A Different Perspective

May underestimate inherent risks of certain tools.

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