Humanity cannot afford to muddle through the rest of the twentieth century; the risks are too great, and the stakes are too high. This may be the last opportunity to choose our own and our descendants’ destiny. Failing to choose or making the wrong choices may lead to catastrophe. But it must never be forgotten that the right choices could lead to a much better world.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of making informed choices for the future to avoid disastrous consequences.
John Holdren's quote reflects the urgency and gravity of decision-making in the context of humanity's future. It asserts that as we navigate through the complexities of the twentieth century, the choices we make now will significantly impact our lives and those of future generations. The notion of either choosing wisely or facing dire outcomes serves as a reminder that our actions have far-reaching implications, and with the potential for both devastation and improvement, the responsibility lies in collective awareness and proactive choices.
In practice
In a graduation speech about the importance of decision-making in life.
Any objective look at what science has to say about climate change ought to be sufficient to persuade reasonable people that the climate is changing and that humans are responsible for a substantial part of that - and that these changes are doing harm and will continue to do more harm unless we start to reduce our emissions.
I believe that in intense conflict, far from becoming sharper, differences melt away.
Only children believe they're capable of everything.
Truth is found neither in the thesis nor the antithesis, but in an emergent synthesis which reconciles the two.
One has not only a legal but a moral responsibility to obey just laws. Conversely, one has a moral responsibility to disobey unjust laws. I would agree with St. Augustine that ' an unjust law is no law at all.
It was not meant that the soul should cultivate the earth, but that the earth should educate and maintain the soul.
Those who are pure in heart and single in purpose are able to understand the most supreme Way. It is like polishing a mirror, which becomes bright when the dust is removed. Remove your passions, and have no hankering.
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