Business Quote by Henry David Thoreau
““Men think that it is essential that the "Nation" have commerce, and export ice, and talk through a telegraph, and ride thirty miles an hour, without a doubt, wether they do or not; but whether we should live like baboons or like men, is a little uncertain.””
About This Quote
The quote questions the belief that technological progress and economic activity define civilization, suggesting true humanity is measured by moral and social development, not material comforts.
In simple terms: Progress isn’t just tech and trade; it’s about how we live together.
Key Takeaway
Focus on ethical growth over mere material advancement.
Themes
civilization
technology
ethics
human nature
progress
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
critical
observational
When to use this quote
- urban development
- consumer culture
- education reform
- environmental policy
Key Concepts
materialism
social evolution
philosophical critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines a truly civilized society?
- How can we balance material progress with moral development?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook the practical benefits of commerce and technology for improving lives.
![“[S]ometimes, when you are a food person, the possible irrelevance of what you are doing doesn’t cross your mind until it’s too late. (Once, for example, when I was just starting out in the food business, I was hired by the caper people to develop a lot of recipes using capers, and it was weeks of…” quote by Nora Ephron](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d79/nora-ephron-1217_business_s-ometimes-when-you-are-a-food-person-th_980.jpg)
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)