Babylon 5 Quote by J Michael Straczynski
““Elric: We are dreamers, shapers, singers, and makers. We study the mysteries of laser and circuit, crystal and scanner, holographic demons and invocation of equations. These are the tools we employ, and we know many things. John Sheridan: Such as? Elric: The true secrets, the important things. Fourteen words to make someone fall in love with you forever. Seven words to make them go without pain. How to say good-bye to a friend who is dying. How to be poor. How to be rich. How to rediscover dreams when the world has stolen them. That is why we are going away—to preserve that knowledge. Sheridan: From what? Elric: There is a storm coming, a black and terrible storm. We would not have our knowledge lost or used to ill purpose. From this place we will launch ourselves into the stars. With luck, you will never see our kind again in your lifetime. I know you have your orders, Captain. Detain us if you wish. But I cannot tell you where we are going. I can only ask you to trust us.””
About This Quote
Source TV Series: Babylon 5, Episode “The Long, Twilight Struggle”, 1995
Elric explains that knowledge of technology and secrets can be used for both creation and destruction, urging preservation against misuse.
In simple terms: Knowledge can create or destroy; protect it.
Key Takeaway
Guard valuable knowledge from misuse.
Themes
technology
ethics
preservation
power
responsibility
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- scientists protecting discoveries
- leaders facing crises
- ethical decisions in tech
Key Concepts
secret knowledge
future planning
moral dilemmas
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we decide which knowledge to share?
- What responsibilities do creators have?
A Different Perspective
Knowledge alone cannot stop misuse without ethical guardians.
