Absolutes Quote by Voltaire
“Among the illusions which have invested our civilization is an absolute belief that the solutions to our problems must be a more determined application of rationally organized expertise... The reality is that our problems are largely the product of that application.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Unknown, 18th century lecture
Belief that rational expertise alone solves problems is illusion; it often creates those problems.
In simple terms: Rational expertise can cause problems.
Key Takeaway
Question expertise, avoid over‑reliance on experts.
Themes
rationality
expertise
societal issues
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- organizational strategy
- public discourse
- technology development
Key Concepts
systems thinking
unintended consequences
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance expertise with humility?
- When does expertise become a problem?
A Different Perspective
Expertise without humility can worsen issues.
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