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Canals Quote by Percival Lowell

“Irrigation, unscientifically conducted, would not give us such truly wonderful mathematical fitness [as we observe in the Martian canals]. . . . A mind of no mean order would seem to have presided over the system we see-a mind certainly of considerably more comprehensiveness than that which…” quote by Percival Lowell
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“Irrigation, unscientifically conducted, would not give us such truly wonderful mathematical fitness [as we observe in the Martian canals]. . . . A mind of no mean order would seem to have presided over the system we see-a mind certainly of considerably more comprehensiveness than that which presides over the various department of our own public works.”

Percival Lowell

About This Quote

Source Speech: Lecture on Martian Canals, 1895

Irrigation done without scientific method would not produce the remarkable patterns seen on Mars, suggesting a highly organized mind behind them, unlike our own public works.

In simple terms: Scientific irrigation yields better results; Martian canals hint at superior planning.

Key Takeaway

Apply rigorous methods to improve outcomes.

Themes

science engineering observation

Mood

analytical inquisitive

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • agricultural management
  • space exploration
  • public works critique

Key Concepts

systems thinking complexity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we emulate Martian organization?
  • What limits our engineering precision?
A Different Perspective

Human systems often lack the coherence seen in natural patterns.

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