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 the vanished bison and the dodo, but upon its inferior races. The Tasmanians, in spite of their human likeness, were entirely swept out of existence in a war of extermination waged by European immigrants, in the space of fifty years. Are we such apostles of mercy as””
About This Quote
Source Book: The War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells, 1898
The quote warns that humanity has repeatedly caused massive, irreversible damage to other species and peoples, often through violent colonization and exploitation.
In simple terms: Humans have destroyed many beings and cultures.
Key Takeaway
Recognize past harms and choose compassion.
Themes
environmental destruction
colonialism
human cruelty
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
historical
ethical
cautionary
When to use this quote
- conservation policy
- education curricula
- human rights advocacy
- museum exhibits
Key Concepts
anthropocentrism
species extinction
historical genocide
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we prevent repeating past atrocities?
- What responsibilities arise from this history?
A Different Perspective
It may overgeneralize human nature and ignore positive progress.
![“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)
