Acquire Quote by Humphry Davy
“The beginning of civilisation is the discovery of some useful arts, by which men acquire property, comforts, or luxuries. The necessity or desire of preserving them leads to laws and social institutions. The discovery of peculiar arts gives superiority to particular nations ... to subjugate other nations, who learn their arts, and ultimately adopt their manners;- so that in reality the origin as well as the progress and improvement of civil society is founded in mechanical and chemical inventions.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: The Progress of Civilisation, 1815
Human advancement stems from useful inventions that create wealth and comfort, leading to laws and institutions; mastery of such arts can dominate other societies, but ultimately all societies evolve through mechanical and chemical innovation.
In simple terms: Inventions drive wealth, law, and societal growth, and can create power imbalances.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how technology shapes power and responsibility.
Themes
innovation
power
societal development
technology
law
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- industrial revolution
- modern tech policy
- economic development
- cultural exchange
- global competition
Key Concepts
mechanical invention
chemical invention
property rights
social institutions
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance innovation with equitable benefit?
- What responsibilities accompany technological dominance?
A Different Perspective
Technological superiority can foster inequality and conflict if not managed ethically.
![“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)
