Everything in nature is the result of fixed laws.
Charles DarwinRead
Man selects only for his own good: Nature only for that of the being which she tends.
Interpretation
Humans often make choices based on selfish interests, while nature acts with the broader benefit of life in mind.
In this quote, Charles Darwin highlights the contrast between human decision-making and the natural world's processes. While humans tend to prioritize their own needs and desires, nature operates with a more holistic approach that ensures the survival and welfare of all living beings. This reflects a philosophical perspective on the differences in how humans and nature fulfill their roles in the ecosystem.
In practice
This quote can be used in a discussion about environmental conservation.
Everything in nature is the result of fixed laws.
The highest possible stage in moral culture is when we recognize that we ought to control our thoughts.
I am quite conscious that my speculations run beyond the bounds of true science....It is a mere rag of an hypothesis with as many flaw[s] & holes as sound parts.
We cannot fathom the marvelous complexity of an organic being; but on the hypothesis here advanced this complexity is much increased. Each living creature must be looked at as a microcosm--a little universe, formed of a host of self-propagating organisms, inconceivably minute and as numerous as the stars in heaven.
I have called this principle, by which each slight variation, if useful, is preserved, by the term of Natural Selection.
we are always slow in admitting any great change of which we do not see the intermediate steps
One has to completely humiliate oneself to be what the Beatles were . . . . It happened bit by bit, until . . . you're doing exactly what you don't want to do with people you can't stand -- the people you hated when you were ten.
Having a monolithic view of feminism is suffocating.
When Southern people tell us they are no more responsible for the origin of slavery than we are, I acknowledge the fact. When it is said that the institution exists, and that it is very difficult to get rid of it in any satisfactory way, I can understand and appreciate the saying.
The next time you experience a blackout, take some solace by looking at the sky. You will not recognize it.
No man is so poor as that. As well might the mountain streamlets say they have nothing worth giving to the sea, because they are not rivers. Give what you have. To some one, it may be better than you dare to think.
Abba Moses asked Abba Sylvanus, Can a person lay a new foundation every day? The old man replied, If you work hard, you can lay a new foundation every moment. Abba Pimen said, To throw yourself before God, not to measure your progress, to leave behind all self-will; these are the instruments for the work of the soul. The desire to rule is the mother of heresies.
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