Without a global revolution in the sphere of human consciousness a more humane society will not emerge.
Vaclav HavelRead
Man is not an omipotent master of the universe, allowed to do with impunity whatever he thinks, or whatever suits him at the moment. The world we live in is made of an immensely complex and mysterious tissue about which we know very little and which we must treat with utmost humility.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Humans should recognize their limitations and approach the world with humility.
Vaclav Havel's quote emphasizes the idea that humanity is not all-powerful or above the complexities of the universe. Instead, we are part of a vast and intricate system that requires respect and humility, as our understanding is limited and we must act responsibly in our interactions with the world.
Themes
HumilityComplexityUnderstandingResponsibilityUniverse
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on environmental ethics, one could use this quote to highlight the need for responsible stewardship of the planet.
More from Vaclav Havel
All quotes →Ownership is not a vice, not something to be ashamed of, but rather a commitment, and an instrument by which the general good can be served.
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In my opinion, theater shouldn't give advice to citizens.
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Sometimes I wonder if suicides aren't in fact sad guardians of the meaning of life.
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The exercise of power is determined by thousands of interactions between the world of the powerful and that of the powerless, all the more so because these worlds are never divided by a sharp line: everyone has a small part of himself in both.
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Human rights, human freedoms... and human dignity have their deepest roots somewhere outside the perceptible world... while the state is a human creation, human beings are the creation of God.
Vaclav HavelRead
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