Capacity Quote by Thomas Harriot
“Many things they sawe with us as mathematicall instruments, sea compasses... spring clocks that seemed to goe of themselves - and many other things we had - were so strange unto them, and so farre exceeded their capacities to comprehend the reason and meanes how they should be made and done, that they thought they were rather the workes of gods then men.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Diary of Thomas Harriot, 1588-1621
People often attribute complex inventions to divine or magical forces when they cannot understand the underlying science.
In simple terms: Complex tools seem magical to those who don't grasp them.
Key Takeaway
Explain and demystify technology for others.
Themes
technology
misunderstanding
science
belief
history
Mood
curiosity
reflective
inquisitive
Type
historical
educational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education
- public outreach
- museum exhibits
- science communication
Key Concepts
epistemology
technological determinism
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How does knowledge affect perception of technology?
- What role do myths play in explaining the unknown?
A Different Perspective
Not all societies lack capacity; cultural context shapes interpretation.
