Bolts Quote by Thomas A. Edison
“Fooling around with alternating currents is just a waste of time. Nobody will use it, ever. It's too dangerous . . . it could kill a man as quick as a bolt of lightning. Direct current is safe.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Edison on Electrical Experiments, 1880
He dismisses alternating current as dangerous and useless, favoring direct current.
In simple terms: He claims AC is unsafe and unnecessary, preferring DC.
Critically evaluate new technologies.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Power grid design
- industrial safety
- public policy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why dismiss emerging tech without testing?
- What are the risks of favoring one standard?
AC later proved superior for long‑distance transmission.