Civilization Quote by Jacques Ellul
““Our civilization is first and foremost a civilization of means; in the reality of modern life, the means, it would seem, are more important than the ends. Any other assessment of the situation is mere idealism.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Technological Society, Jacques Ellul, 1954
Modern life often values tools and efficiency over deeper purposes, leading to a focus on means rather than ends.
In simple terms: We prioritize tools over goals.
Key Takeaway
Balance means with meaningful ends.
Themes
technology
values
society
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- business strategy
- public policy
- personal goal setting
- environmental planning
Key Concepts
means‑ends analysis
idealism
pragmatism
Questions to Reflect On
- What ends are you sacrificing for efficiency?
- How can you align means with higher values?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on means can ignore ethical implications.
![“In its broad sense, civilization means not only comfort in daily necessities but also the refining of knowledge and the cultivation of virtue so as to elevate human life to a higher plane... It refers to the attainment of both material well-being and the elevation of the human spirit, [but] since…” quote by Fukuzawa Yukichi](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b23/fukuzawa-yukichi-22233_attainment_in-its-broad-sense-civilization-means-no_1507246.jpg)
