Affluent Quote by John W. Gardner
“More and more Americans feel threatened by runaway technology, by large-scale organization, by overcrowding. More and more Americans are appalled by the ravages of industrial progress, by the defacement of nature, by man-made ugliness. If our society continues at its present rate to become less livable as it becomes more affluent, we promise all to end up in sumptuous misery.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Environmental Address, 1970, public lecture
He warns that unchecked technological and industrial growth threatens livability, leading to a paradox of wealth and misery.
In simple terms: Unchecked progress harms quality of life.
Key Takeaway
Balance growth with sustainability.
Themes
environment
technology
societal health
Mood
concerned
serious
Type
philosophical
warning
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- policy making
- community activism
Key Concepts
industrialization
sustainability
quality of life
Questions to Reflect On
- What policies can curb harmful tech expansion?
- How can societies prioritize livability over profit?
A Different Perspective
Economic growth can still cause environmental harm if not managed.
