The paramount doctrine of the economic and technological…
“The paramount doctrine of the economic and technological euphoria of recent decades has been that everything depends on innovation. It was understood as desirable, and even necessary, that we should go on and on from one technological innovation to the next, which would cause the economy to "grow" and make everything better and better. This of course implied at every point a hatred of the past, of all things inherited and free. All things superceded in our progress of innovations, whatever their value might have been, were discounted as of no value at all.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage critiques modern obsession with continual innovation, arguing it devalues tradition and past achievements, and fosters a dismissive attitude toward inherited knowledge.
In simple terms: Innovation focus can devalue past and tradition.
Key Takeaway
Balance progress with respect for heritage.
Themes
innovation
tradition
progress
economics
culture
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
economic
When to use this quote
- policy making
- educational curricula
- business strategy
Key Concepts
technological determinism
historical neglect
value assessment
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we integrate past wisdom with new technology?
- What criteria should determine which traditions to preserve?
A Different Perspective
It may understate the benefits of innovation.