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Atheism Quote by Charles Darwin

“When I view all beings not as special creations, but as the lineal descendants of some few beings which lived long before the first bed of the Cambrian system was deposited, they seem to me to become ennobled.” quote by Charles Darwin
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“When I view all beings not as special creations, but as the lineal descendants of some few beings which lived long before the first bed of the Cambrian system was deposited, they seem to me to become ennobled.”

Charles Darwin

About This Quote

Source Book: The Origin of Species, 1859

Viewing all life as part of a continuous lineage demotes human exceptionalism and fosters a sense of shared ancestry and humility.

In simple terms: All beings share a common ancestry, making us humble.

Key Takeaway

Recognize our place in the web of life.

Themes

evolution humility connectedness science

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

philosophical scientific

When to use this quote

  • education
  • public outreach
  • environmental stewardship
  • ethical debates

Key Concepts

common descent biological lineage anthropocentrism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this view affect our treatment of other species?
  • Can humility inspire better environmental policies?
A Different Perspective

Emphasizing common ancestry may clash with cultural or religious beliefs.

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