Skip to content

Ethics Quote by Mark Lilla

“Better the self-torture of a godless Protestant conscience than the fantasies of a modern Prometheus.” quote by Mark Lilla
Download Open image
““Better the self-torture of a godless Protestant conscience than the fantasies of a modern Prometheus.””

Mark Lilla

About This Quote

Source Essay: The New Yorker, 2015

Choosing personal moral rigor over reckless technological hubris preserves humanity.

In simple terms: Moral discipline beats reckless ambition.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize ethical self‑examination.

Themes

morality technology humanism religion

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • personal decision‑making
  • public discourse on AI
  • religious reflection

Key Concepts

ethical philosophy existential risk self‑control

Questions to Reflect On

  • What personal convictions guide your choices?
  • How do we balance innovation with ethics?
A Different Perspective

Blind faith in progress can ignore consequences.

4.5 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Mark Lilla

Explore all 51 Mark Lilla quotes

More Ethics quotes

Browse all 4,548 Ethics quotes