Change Quote by David Lilienthal
“Whether happiness or unhappiness, freedom or slavery, in short whether good or evil results from an improved environment depends largely upon how the change has been brought about, upon the methods by which the physical results have been reached, and in what spirit and for what purpose the fruits of that change are used. Because a higher standard of living, a greater productiveness and a command over nature are not good in and of themselves does not mean that we cannot make good of them, that they cannot be a source of inner strength.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Population Bomb, Paul R. Ehrlich, 1968
The moral value of progress depends on the methods used and the intentions behind them, not just the outcomes.
In simple terms: Progress is good only if used wisely.
Key Takeaway
Assess purpose behind advancement.
Themes
ethics
progress
responsibility
Mood
thoughtful
concerned
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- business strategy
- personal development
- community planning
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
environmental ethics
technological determinism
Questions to Reflect On
- What intentions guide your use of technology?
- How do you ensure progress benefits others?
A Different Perspective
Good tools can be misused if motives are selfish.
