Disaster Quote by George Saunders
““Friend: We are here. Already here. Within. A train approaches a wall at a fatal rate of speed. You hold a switch in your hand, that accomplishes you know not what: do you throw it? Disaster is otherwise assured. It costs you nothing. Why not try?””
About This Quote
Source Short story: “The New Yorker” publication, 2014
A person faces a moral dilemma where in action, even if uncertain, may prevent disaster, and inaction guarantees it.
In simple terms: Choosing to act can avert certain disaster, even if outcome is unknown.
Key Takeaway
Act rather than stay passive.
Themes
ethics
decision making
risk
responsibility
Mood
tense
reflective
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- emergency response
- business crisis
- personal relationships
- public policy
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
agency
uncertainty
Questions to Reflect On
- What risks are you avoiding by staying passive?
- How can you assess when to act despite uncertainty?
A Different Perspective
Inaction may be driven by fear or lack of information, leading to missed opportunities.
