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Adam Quote by Bertrand Russell

“The raw fruits of the earth were made for human sustenance. Even the white tails of rabbits, according to some theologians, have a purpose, namely to make it easier for sportsmen to shoot them. There are, it is true, some inconveniences: lions and tigers are too fierce, the summer is too hot, and…” quote by Bertrand Russell
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“The raw fruits of the earth were made for human sustenance. Even the white tails of rabbits, according to some theologians, have a purpose, namely to make it easier for sportsmen to shoot them. There are, it is true, some inconveniences: lions and tigers are too fierce, the summer is too hot, and the winter too cold. But these things only began after Adam ate the apple; I before that, all animals were vegetarians, and the season was always spring. If only Adam had been content with peaches and nectarines, grapes and pears and pineapples, these blessings would still be ours.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

Source Essay: Why I Am Not a Christian, Bertrand Russell, 1927

All creatures have purposes within a divine plan, yet human choices affect the world’s harmony.

In simple terms: Every being has a role, but human actions matter.

Key Takeaway

Consider the impact of choices on nature.

Themes

purpose ethics environment

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • agricultural planning
  • wildlife conservation
  • ethical eating

Key Concepts

Teleology human agency

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you believe all life has intrinsic purpose?
  • How should humans act toward animals?
A Different Perspective

Purpose may be interpreted differently across cultures.

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