Believe Quote by Mary Roach
“The nobility of the human spirit grows harder for me to believe in. War, zealotry, greed, malls, narcissism. I see a backhanded nobility in excessive, impractical outlays of cash prompted by nothing loftier than a species joining hands and saying “I bet we can do this.” Yes, the money could be better spent on Earth. But would it? Since when has money saved by government red-lining been spent on education and cancer research? It is always squandered. Let’s squander some on Mars. Let’s go out and play.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach, 2003
Human spirit’s nobility feels doubtful amid greed and waste; money often misused, yet hope persists for grand ventures like Mars.
In simple terms: Nobility questioned in a material world.
Key Takeaway
Seek purpose beyond profit.
Themes
ethics
environment
space exploration
Mood
critical
hopeful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- philanthropy
- government spending
- space colonization
Key Concepts
humanism
misallocation
optimism
Questions to Reflect On
- What values should guide spending?
- Is space exploration justified?
A Different Perspective
Money can also fund positive change if directed wisely.
