Causes Quote by Cormac McCarthy
““It's a mystery. A man's at odds to know his mind cause his mind is aught he has to know it with. He can know his heart, but he dont want to. Rightly so. Best not to look in there. It aint the heart of a creature that is bound in the way that God has set for it. You can find meanness in the least of creatures, but when God made man the devil was at his elbow. A creature that can do anything. Make a machine. And a machine to make the machine. And evil that can run itself a thousand years, no need to tend it.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Road by Cormac McCarthy, 2006
The passage reflects on humanity’s capacity for both creation and destruction, suggesting that evil can become self‑sustaining, while divine order imposes limits.
In simple terms: Humans can create tools that become dangerous on their own.
Beware of technology that outpaces moral control.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- evaluating AI risks
- discussing moral limits of tech
- considering spiritual perspectives on progress
- examining personal responsibility
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards can prevent harmful tech?
- Can morality keep pace with innovation?
Technology may be harnessed for good if guided.