Animal Quote by Thomas Huxley
![“Perhaps no order of mammals presents us with so extraordinary a series of gradations as this [step by step, from humans to apes to monkeys to lemurs] - leading us insensibly from the crown and summit of the animal creation down to creatures, from which there is but a step, as it seems, to the…” quote by Thomas Huxley](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f0b/thomas-huxley-1183_animal_perhaps-no-order-of-mammals-presents-us_3051.jpg)
“Perhaps no order of mammals presents us with so extraordinary a series of gradations as this [step by step, from humans to apes to monkeys to lemurs] - leading us insensibly from the crown and summit of the animal creation down to creatures, from which there is but a step, as it seems, to the lowest, smallest, and least intelligent of the placental Mammalia. It is as if nature herself had forseen the arrogance of man, and with Roman severity had provided that his intellect, by its very triumphs, should call into prominence the slaves, admonishing the conqueror that he is but dust.”
About This Quote
Humanity’s place in the animal hierarchy is portrayed as a gradual descent, suggesting that our intellect may lead to humility as we recognize our kinship with lower mammals.
In simple terms: Human intellect may humble us.
Key Takeaway
Pride precedes humility
Themes
evolution
humility
anthropocentrism
nature
intellect
Mood
reflective
somber
Type
philosophical
didactic
When to use this quote
- academic lectures
- environmental ethics debates
- public science communication
Key Concepts
species hierarchy
philosophy of science
Practical Applications
- curriculum design
- public outreach programs
Questions to Reflect On
- Does recognizing our kinship with lesser animals change our behavior?
- How can scientific humility guide policy?
