Absolutes Quote by Paul Driessen
![“Had today's technophobic zealots [environmental activists] been in charge in previous centuries, we would have to roll human progress back to the Middle Ages - and beyond, since even fire, the wheel and organic farming pose risks, and none would have passed the "absolute safety" test the zealots…” quote by Paul Driessen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/97c/paul-driessen-50132_absolutes_had-today-s-technophobic-zealots-environ_937564.jpg)
“Had today's technophobic zealots [environmental activists] been in charge in previous centuries, we would have to roll human progress back to the Middle Ages - and beyond, since even fire, the wheel and organic farming pose risks, and none would have passed the "absolute safety" test the zealots demand. Putting them in charge now would mean an end to progress, and perpetual deprivation for inhabitants of developing nations.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Technological Progress and Environmentalism, Paul Driessen, 2020
Extreme cautionary activism can halt essential innovation, especially in developing regions, leading to stagnation and hardship.
In simple terms: Over‑cautious activism may stop progress and harm developing nations.
Key Takeaway
Seek balanced approaches that protect safety without stalling progress.
Themes
environmental activism
technological progress
development
Mood
critical
optimistic
Type
analytical
policy‑oriented
When to use this quote
- policy making
- technology deployment
- community development
- education programs
- infrastructure projects
Key Concepts
risk management
innovation policy
ethical standards
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure safety while fostering innovation?
- What safeguards can prevent misuse without halting progress?
A Different Perspective
Safety concerns are valid and must be addressed responsibly.
![“They [zealots] would have everybody be as blind as themselves: to them, to be clear-sighted is libertinism.” quote by Moliere](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/39f/moliere-965_bigotry_they-zealots-would-have-everybody-be-as_2582830.jpg)
![“A couple degrees warmer would be good for humanity and planet, especially with more plant-fertilizing carbon dioxide in the air. [...] But a couple degrees colder would bring serious adverse consequences for habitats, wildlife, agriculture and humanity."” quote by Paul Driessen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cbe/paul-driessen-50132_adverse_a-couple-degrees-warmer-would-be-good-fo_3071593.jpg)
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
