Cities Quote by Terry Pratchett
“When you can flatten entire cities at a whim, a tendency towards quiet reflection and seeing-things-from-the-other-fellow's-point- of-view is seldom necessary.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Discworld series, 1990s
When power allows instant destruction, the need for careful perspective and reflection diminishes.
In simple terms: Powerful tools reduce the need for reflection.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate humility and diverse viewpoints.
Themes
power
technology
reflection
Mood
cautionary
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- military strategy
- AI development
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
ethics
perspective
humanism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure reflection persists in a high‑tech world?
- What safeguards maintain diverse viewpoints?
A Different Perspective
Overreliance on power can erode empathy and critical thinking.
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
