Art Quote by Edward Gibbon
![“If we contrast the rapid progress of this mischievous discovery [gunpowder] with the slow and laborious advances of reason, science, and the arts of peace, a philosopher, according to his temper, will laugh or weep at the folly of mankind.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/12f/edward-gibbon-710_art_if-we-contrast-the-rapid-progress-of-thi_1234386.jpg)
“If we contrast the rapid progress of this mischievous discovery [gunpowder] with the slow and laborious advances of reason, science, and the arts of peace, a philosopher, according to his temper, will laugh or weep at the folly of mankind.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon, 1776
The author contrasts swift, destructive inventions with the slow, deliberate progress of rational thought, suggesting philosophers may find humanity either amusing or tragic.
In simple terms: Fast inventions vs slow reason; philosophers see humanity as folly.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the double‑edged nature of progress.
Themes
philosophy
history
technology
human nature
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education reform
- technology policy
- cultural criticism
- ethical debates
Key Concepts
innovation
reason
art
war
peace
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance innovation with wisdom?
- When does progress become folly?
A Different Perspective
Rapid change can outpace ethical reflection, leading to misuse.
![“If we contrast the rapid progress of this mischievous discovery [of gunpowder] with the slow and laborious advances of reason, science, and the arts of peace, a philosopher, according to his temper, will laugh or weep at the folly of mankind" (Chapter 65,p. 68)” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/8ae/edward-gibbon-710_art_if-we-contrast-the-rapid-progress-of-thi_1734580.jpg)
![“That country [Carthage] was rapidly sinking into the state of barbarism from whence it had been raised by the Phoenician colonies and Roman laws; and every step of intestine discord was marked by some deplorable victory of savage man over civilized society.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/70c/edward-gibbon-710_barbarism_that-country-carthage-was-rapidly-sinkin_393.jpg)
![“[In] the national and religious conflict of the [Byzantine and Saracen] empires, peace was without confidence, and war without mercy.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/338/edward-gibbon-710_byzantine_in-the-national-and-religious-conflict-o_29382.jpg)
![“[Every] hour of delay abates the fame and force of the invader, and multiplies the resources of defensive war.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/4de/edward-gibbon-710_delay_every-hour-of-delay-abates-the-fame-and_94668.jpg)
