Atlantis Quote by Umberto Eco
““Haven’t you grasped the significance of this discovery? In the Telluric Navel you place the most powerful valve, which enables you to foresee rain and drought, to release hurricanes, tidal waves, earthquakes, to split continents, sink islands (no doubt Atlantis disappeared in some such reckless experiment), raise mountain chains …You realize the atomic bomb is nothing in comparison? Besides””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco, 1980
The passage uses fantastical imagery to illustrate the overwhelming power of knowledge and technology, dwarfing even the most destructive human inventions.
In simple terms: Knowledge and tech can surpass even the worst weapons.
Key Takeaway
Respect the responsibility that comes with great power.
Themes
knowledge
technology
responsibility
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
warning
When to use this quote
- scientific research
- environmental policy
- technological development
- global risk assessment
Key Concepts
ethics
human hubris
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we ensure ethical use of powerful technologies?
- What safeguards are needed for large‑scale scientific discoveries?
A Different Perspective
Such power can be misused or misunderstood, leading to unintended harm.
![“On 17th July there came to us at Potsdam the eagerly-awaited news of the trial of the atomic bomb in the [New] Mexican desert. Success beyond all dreams crowded this sombre, magnificent venture of our American allies. The detailed reports ... could leave no doubt in the minds of the very few who…” quote by Winston Churchill](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/70b/winston-churchill-95_affair_on-17th-july-there-came-to-us-at-potsdam_2230367.jpg)
