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Age Quote by Bertrand Russell

“An extra-terrestrial philosopher, who had watched a single youth up to the age of twenty-one and had never come across any other human being, might conclude that it is the nature of human beings to grow continually taller and wiser in an indefinite progress towards perfection; and this…” quote by Bertrand Russell
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“An extra-terrestrial philosopher, who had watched a single youth up to the age of twenty-one and had never come across any other human being, might conclude that it is the nature of human beings to grow continually taller and wiser in an indefinite progress towards perfection; and this generalization would be just as well founded as the generalization which evolutionists base upon the previous history of this planet.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

Source Book: The Conquest of Happiness by Bertrand Russell, 1930

A lone observer might infer that humanity is inherently driven to perpetual growth and improvement, similar to evolutionary theory.

In simple terms: Humans seem destined to keep getting better.

Key Takeaway

Embrace continual learning and growth.

Themes

human nature progress philosophy

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • career development
  • personal improvement
  • societal advancement

Key Concepts

evolution perfection growth

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is perpetual improvement realistic?
  • What limits human growth?
A Different Perspective

Assumes uniform progress, ignoring setbacks and regressions.

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