Skip to content

Age Quote by Diane Ackerman

“As a species, we've somehow survived large and small ice ages, genetic bottlenecks, plagues, world wars and all manner of natural disasters, but I sometimes wonder if we'll survive our own ingenuity.” quote by Diane Ackerman
Download Open image
“As a species, we've somehow survived large and small ice ages, genetic bottlenecks, plagues, world wars and all manner of natural disasters, but I sometimes wonder if we'll survive our own ingenuity.”

Diane Ackerman

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Human Age, Diane Ackerman, 2005

Humanity has endured many natural catastrophes, yet its own technological advances may pose the greatest future threat.

In simple terms: We survive nature, but maybe not our own inventions.

Key Takeaway

Consider the impact of human ingenuity on survival.

Themes

environment technology survival future risk

Mood

concerned reflective

Type

cautionary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • climate change policy
  • AI development
  • bioengineering ethics
  • global health crises

Key Concepts

anthropology existential risk ecology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we harness innovation responsibly?
  • What safeguards are needed for emerging technologies?
A Different Perspective

Human ingenuity can also create solutions, not just threats.

2.9 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Diane Ackerman

Explore all 304 Diane Ackerman quotes

More Age quotes

Browse all 18,948 Age quotes