Good health Quote by Wendell Berry
““The Luddites ... asserted the precedence of community needs over technological innovation and monetary profit; ... The victory of industrialism over Luddism was overwhelming and unconditional; it was undoubtedly the most complete, significant, and lasting victory of modern times. ... To this day, if you say you would be willing to forbid, restrict, or reduce the use of technological devices in order to protect the community -- or to protect the good health of nature on which the community depends -- you will be calle4d a Luddite, and it will not be a compliment. ... Technological determinism has triumphed.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Luddite Perspective, 1990
The quote argues that modern society prioritizes profit and technology over community welfare, labeling dissenters as “Luddite” and celebrating industrial triumph.
In simple terms: Society values profit and tech over community, dismissing critics.
Key Takeaway
Balance innovation with community needs.
Themes
technology
community
economics
environment
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
sociopolitical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- urban planning
- environmental activism
Key Concepts
industrialization
technological determinism
Questions to Reflect On
- Can technology ever serve community well?
- What defines “necessary” innovation?
A Different Perspective
The view may overlook benefits of technology for community health.
![“. . . Luddites were those frenzied traditionalists of the early 19th century who toured [England] wrecking new weaving machines on the theory that if they were destroyed . . . old jobs and old ways of life could be preserved . . . At certain times in his life each man is tempted to become a…” quote by James A. Michener](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/182/james-a-michener-1627_19th-century_luddites-were-those-frenzied-traditional_76909.jpg)
