Change Quote by Bertrand Russell
““We are accustomed to take progress for granted: to assume without hesitation that the changes which have happened during the last hundred years were unquestionably for the better, and that further changes for the better are sure to follow indefinitely.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Conquest of Happiness, 1930
People often assume that technological and social progress automatically improves life, overlooking potential downsides and uncertainties.
In simple terms: Progress isn’t always better.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about improvement.
Themes
progress
assumption
skepticism
Mood
critical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- technology adoption
- social change
Key Concepts
critical thinking
history of ideas
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence supports true betterment?
- How can we ensure progress benefits all?
A Different Perspective
Progress can bring new problems and inequities.
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
