Animal Quote by Maurice Maeterlinck
“All our knowledge merely helps us to die a more painful death than the animals that know nothing. A day will come when science will turn upon its error and no longer hesitate to shorten our woes. A day will come when it will dare and act with certainty; when life, grown wiser, will depart silently at its hour, knowing that it has reached its term.”
About This Quote
Source Play: The Blue Bird, 1908
Human awareness of mortality intensifies suffering compared to oblivious animals; scientific progress may eventually confront its own limits and accept death without hesitation.
In simple terms: Knowing too much makes life harder; science may eventually accept death.
Key Takeaway
Accept limits of knowledge and embrace humility.
Themes
mortality
knowledge
science
humility
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
philosophical
existential
ethical
When to use this quote
- medical ethics debates
- end‑of‑life care
- technological advancement
- philosophical reflection
Key Concepts
existentialism
ethical limits
human condition
Questions to Reflect On
- How does awareness of death shape our choices?
- Can science ever fully resolve existential suffering?
A Different Perspective
Science cannot eliminate death, only change its perception.
