Skip to content

Bacteria Quote by Greg Egan

“Conquering the Galaxy is what bacteria with spaceships would do – knowing no better, having no choice.” quote by Greg Egan
Download Open image
““Conquering the Galaxy is what bacteria with spaceships would do – knowing no better, having no choice.””

Greg Egan

About This Quote

Source Short story: “The Planck Dive”, 1995

Imagines a future where sentient bacteria with technology act without moral choice, highlighting deterministic existence.

In simple terms: Bacteria with ships act by necessity.

Key Takeaway

Consider the limits of free will.

Themes

determinism technology ethics

Mood

thought‑provoking speculative

Type

philosophical fictional

When to use this quote

  • future tech
  • biological intelligence
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

philosophy science fiction

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do beings without choice have moral responsibility?
  • Can technology alter deterministic paths?
A Different Perspective

Assumes lack of agency is inevitable.

3.2 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Greg Egan

Explore all 78 Greg Egan quotes

More Bacteria quotes

Browse all 169 Bacteria quotes