I saw within Its depth how It conceives_x000D_ _x000D_ All things in a single volume bound by Love_x000D_ _x000D_ of which the universe is the scattered leaves.
Dante AlighieriRead
For where the instrument of intelligence is added to brute power and evil will, mankind is powerless in its own defense.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that when intelligence is combined with raw power and evil intentions, humanity is defenseless against such forces.
Dante Alighieri's quote highlights the terrifying reality that intelligence, when wielded alongside brute force and malice, can create an overwhelming threat to humanity. It emphasizes the importance of moral integrity and the potential consequences when knowledge and intelligence are used for harmful purposes. In this context, it serves as a warning about the dangers of allowing power to go unchecked, especially when coupled with a lack of ethics.
Themes
IntelligencePowerEvilDefenseMankind
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech on the risks of technology in warfare, one might use this quote to emphasize the need for ethical considerations.
More from Dante Alighieri
All quotes βBefore me things created were none, save things Eternal, and eternal I endure. All hope abandon, ye who enter here.
Dante AlighieriRead
The customs and fashions of men change like leaves on the bough, some of which go and others come.
Dante AlighieriRead
Heaven wheels above you, displaying to you her eternal glories, and still your eyes are on the ground.
Dante AlighieriRead
Pride, envy, avarice - these are the sparks have set on fire the hearts of all men.
Dante AlighieriRead
Thus you may understand that love alone is the true seed of every merit in you, and of all acts for which you must atone.
Dante AlighieriRead
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