Destruction Species Quote by H.G. Wells
““We must remember what ruthless and utter destruction our own species has wrought, not only upon animals, such as vanished bison and the dodo, but upon its own inferior races. The Tasmanians . . . were entirely swept out of existence in a war of extermination waged by European immigrants, in the space if fifty years. Are we such apostles of mercy as to complain if the Martians warred in the same spirit?””
About This Quote
The passage warns that humanity has caused massive extinction, including of peoples, and questions moral superiority when similar violence occurs elsewhere.
In simple terms: Humanity has destroyed many species and cultures, raising doubts about its moral high ground.
Key Takeaway
Reflect on humanity’s impact on life.
Themes
environment
ethics
colonialism
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- environmental activism
- historical study
- ethical debate
Key Concepts
extinction
moral relativism
historical injustice
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities arise from past destructions?
- Can we claim moral superiority after such acts?
A Different Perspective
Human progress often ignores past harms.
![“The thing [Henry James'] novel is about is always there. It is like a church lit but without a congregation to distract you, with every light and line focused on the high altar. And on the altar, very reverently placed, intensely there, is a dead kitten, an egg-shell, a bit of string.” quote by H.G. Wells](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/19f/h-g-wells-2-1299_books_the-thing-henry-james-novel-is-about-is_138893.jpg)
