Century Quote by Lewis Thomas
“If we have learned anything at all in this century, it is that all new technologies will be put to use, sooner or later, for better or worse, as it is in our nature to do.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Medusa and the Snail, 1979
New technologies inevitably become used, for good or ill, reflecting human nature.
In simple terms: Technology will be used, for better or worse.
Key Takeaway
Prepare for both positive and negative impacts of tech.
Themes
technology
ethics
human nature
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- policy making
- product development
- public discourse
- education curricula
Key Concepts
innovation diffusion
risk assessment
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards can mitigate negative uses?
- How do we balance innovation with caution?
A Different Perspective
Predicting specific outcomes is difficult; unintended consequences arise.
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