Characteristics Quote by Jacques Ellul
“The qualities which technique requires for its advance are precisely those characteristics of a technical order which do not represent indivisual intelligence...The individual, in order to make use of technical instruments, no longer needs to know about his civilization.”
About This Quote
Technical progress relies on systematic methods, reducing the need for individual intelligence to understand civilization.
In simple terms: Technique advances through systematic methods, not personal insight.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of technical reliance.
Themes
technology
technique
intelligence
civilization
automation
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- software development
- engineering education
- policy making
- public discourse
Key Concepts
philosophy of technology
systems theory
cognitive science
Questions to Reflect On
- How does reliance on tools affect critical thinking?
- Can we balance technical skill with human insight?
A Different Perspective
May undervalue human creativity.
![“[Practical intelligence is] practical in nature: that is, it's now knowledge for its own sake. It's knowledge that helps you read situations correctly and get what you want.” quote by Malcolm Gladwell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/514/malcolm-gladwell-348_intelligence_practical-intelligence-is-practical-in-n_2409365.jpg)
