Air Quote by Charles Caleb Colton
“When the air balloon was first discovered, some one flippantly asked Dr. Franklin what was the use of it. The doctor answered this question by asking another: "What is the use of a new-born infant? It may become a man."”
About This Quote
Source Quote: Unknown origin
The quote likens a new invention’s unknown value to a newborn’s potential, suggesting usefulness emerges over time.
In simple terms: New things may seem useless until they develop.
Key Takeaway
Patience for growth and potential.
Themes
potential
growth
patience
innovation
valuation
Mood
thoughtful
optimistic
cautious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- evaluating new technology
- parenting
- investing in research
- long‑term planning
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
potential
development
value
time
uncertainty
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we decide which potentials to nurture?
- When is it wiser to discard a new idea early?
A Different Perspective
Assumes all new things will become valuable, which isn’t always true.
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
![“[A]s you partake of the world's bill of fare, that's darned good advice to follow. Do a lot of spitting out the hot air. And be careful what you swallow.” quote by Dr. Seuss](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/da8/dr-seuss-1224_advice_a-s-you-partake-of-the-world-s-bill-of-f_6806.jpg)