Science tells us how to heal and how to kill; it reduces…
“Science tells us how to heal and how to kill; it reduces our death rate in retail and then kills us wholesale in war; but only wisdom - desire coordinated in the light of all experience - can tell us when to heal and when to kill.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Science provides tools for both healing and destruction; wisdom guides their ethical use.
In simple terms: Science can heal or kill; wisdom decides how.
Key Takeaway
Seek wisdom before applying scientific power.
Themes
ethics
science
war
medicine
wisdom
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- medical research
- military strategy
- public policy
- education
- technology development
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
responsibility
humanism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance scientific progress with ethical constraints?
- What role should wisdom play in policy decisions?
A Different Perspective
Science alone cannot resolve moral dilemmas; human judgment is needed.