--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: We have outsmarted ourselves, like greedy…" description: "\"“We have outsmarted ourselves, like greedy monkeys, and now we are full of dread.”\" — Peter Matthiessen" image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/33b/peter-matthiessen-5795_fear_we-have-outsmarted-ourselves-like-greedy_2691993.png" --- # We have outsmarted ourselves, like greedy monkeys, and now… ![“We have outsmarted ourselves, like greedy monkeys, and now we are full of dread.” quote by Peter Matthiessen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/33b/peter-matthiessen-5795_fear_we-have-outsmarted-ourselves-like-greedy_2691993.png) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/33b/peter-matthiessen-5795_fear_we-have-outsmarted-ourselves-like-greedy_2691993.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/33b/peter-matthiessen-5795_fear_we-have-outsmarted-ourselves-like-greedy_2691993.png) > ““We have outsmarted ourselves, like greedy monkeys, and now we are full of dread.”” [Peter Matthiessen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/peter-matthiessen/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Human ingenuity can create problems as severe as the ones it solves, leading to collective anxiety. **In simple terms:** Our cleverness can cause fear. Key Takeaway Beware over‑engineering solutions. Themes technology human nature anxiety Mood cautious reflective Type philosophical warning When to use this quote - environmental policy - tech development - public health - social media Key Concepts unintended consequences hubris Questions to Reflect On - How can we balance innovation with humility? - What safeguards prevent self‑inflicted dread? 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