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Destruction Quote by George Bernard Shaw

“I ... must continue to strive for more knowledge and more power, though the new knowledge always contradicts the old and the new power is the destruction of the fools who misuse it.” quote by George Bernard Shaw
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“I ... must continue to strive for more knowledge and more power, though the new knowledge always contradicts the old and the new power is the destruction of the fools who misuse it.”

George Bernard Shaw

About This Quote

The pursuit of knowledge and power is relentless, yet each new insight challenges previous beliefs, and power misused leads to ruin for the ignorant.

In simple terms: Knowledge evolves, power misused harms.

Key Takeaway

Progress demands humility and responsibility.

Themes

knowledge power contradiction responsibility wisdom

Mood

reflective cautious inquisitive

Type

philosophical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • political leadership
  • technological innovation
  • education reform

Key Concepts

epistemology ethics human nature

Practical Applications

  • policy design
  • leadership training

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies guard against the misuse of emerging technologies?
  • What mechanisms ensure that new knowledge is integrated responsibly?
A Different Perspective

Some argue that power can be a force for good regardless of misuse, emphasizing intent over outcome.

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