Century Quote by George Bernard Shaw
“For four wicked centuries the world has dreamed this foolish dream of efficiency; and the end is not yet. But the end will come.”
About This Quote
Source Play: Man and Superman, 1903
Human pursuit of efficiency is a flawed, endless dream that will eventually end.
In simple terms: Efficiency is an endless, foolish dream.
Key Takeaway
Question the value of relentless efficiency.
Themes
efficiency
society
critique
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
satirical
When to use this quote
- business strategy
- policy making
- personal productivity
- environmental planning
Key Concepts
industrialism
capitalism
sustainability
Questions to Reflect On
- Is endless efficiency truly attainable?
- What are the costs of chasing efficiency?
A Different Perspective
Efficiency can improve life when balanced with humanity.