Efficient Quote by Richard Dawkins
“Scientific and technological progress themselves are value-neutral. They are just very good at doing what they do. If you want to do selfish, greedy, intolerant and violent things, scientific technology will provide you with by far the most efficient way of doing so. But if you want to do good, to solve the world's problems, to progress in the best value-laden sense, once again, there is no better means to those ends than the scientific way.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Edge of Reason, Richard Dawkins, 2004
Science itself lacks moral direction; it amplifies human intentions, whether good or bad.
In simple terms: Science is neutral, used for any purpose.
Key Takeaway
Use science responsibly for beneficial goals.
Themes
ethics
technology
responsibility
Mood
thoughtful
concerned
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- environmental solutions
- medical research
- defense technology
Key Concepts
instrumentalism
value-laden progress
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies ensure ethical use of scientific advances?
- What safeguards are needed for dual‑use technologies?
A Different Perspective
Science can be misused if societal values are weak.
