Skip to content

Affair Quote by John Dewey

“In the present state of the world, it is evident that the control we have gained of physical energies, heat, light, electricity, etc., without having first secured control of our use of ourselves is a perilous affair. Without the control of our use of ourselves, our use of other things is blind…” quote by John Dewey
Download Open image
“In the present state of the world, it is evident that the control we have gained of physical energies, heat, light, electricity, etc., without having first secured control of our use of ourselves is a perilous affair. Without the control of our use of ourselves, our use of other things is blind; it may lead to anything.”

John Dewey

About This Quote

Source Speech: Lecture on Education, 1930s

Human self‑control is prerequisite for responsibly using technology; without it, power becomes dangerous.

In simple terms: We must master ourselves before mastering tools.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate self‑discipline first.

Themes

responsibility technology self‑control ethics

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • leadership
  • policy making
  • technology deployment

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can individuals strengthen self‑discipline?
  • What societal structures support responsible tech use?
A Different Perspective

Self‑control is hard to achieve and may be undermined by external pressures.

4.7 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by John Dewey

Explore all 486 John Dewey quotes

More Affair quotes

Browse all 2,218 Affair quotes