Ability Quote by Noam Chomsky
“To object that the facts about human nature set limits on our ability to change the world and ourselves makes about as much sense as the lament that our lack of wings sets limits on our ability to 'fly' as far as eagles under our own power.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Limits of Human Nature” (1995)
Argues that believing nature limits change is as absurd as thinking lack of wings prevents flight
In simple terms: Limits are mental constructs, not real barriers
Key Takeaway
Challenge assumptions about human potential
Themes
philosophy
psychology
human potential
Mood
inquisitive
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- education reform
- personal development
- social activism
- innovation policy
Key Concepts
Determinism
self‑efficacy
Questions to Reflect On
- What perceived limits hold you back?
- How can you test the reality of those limits?
A Different Perspective
Overcoming deeply ingrained beliefs is difficult
![“I wrote an article about the marine landing [in Haiti] right away, but barely mentioned the oil, because my article would come out two months later and I assumed by then, "of course, everybody knows." Nobody knew. There was a news report in the Wall Street Journal, in the petroleum journals, and…” quote by Noam Chomsky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/dc5/noam-chomsky-42_articles_i-wrote-an-article-about-the-marine-land_13341.jpg)
