I was taught over and over again that the accumulation of random mutations led to evolutionary change - led to new species. I believed it until I looked for evidence.
Lynn MargulisRead
Despite our very recent appearance on the planet, humanity combines arrogance with increasing material demands, even as we become more numerous. Our toughness is a delusion. Have we the intelligence and discipline to vigilantly guard against our tendency to grow without limit?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on humanity's arrogance and unsustainable growth amidst our recent existence on Earth.
In this quote, Lynn Margulis emphasizes the paradox of humanity's arrogance in claiming dominion over the planet while exhibiting an ever-increasing appetite for resources. She questions our ability to recognize the delusions of our supposed toughness and urges for intelligence and discipline to manage our growth responsibly, warning against the dangers of unchecked expansion in both population and material demands.
Themes
HumanityGrowthArroganceSustainabilityIntelligenceDelusion
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about environmental conservation, one could use this quote to highlight the need for responsible resource management.
More from Lynn Margulis
All quotes →There is no scientific reason to think that we, even with space travel, are going to survive as a species for ever, certainly not by biting off the hand that feeds us, which is exactly what we are doing.
Lynn MargulisRead
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