One should proceed with caution. We may simply not be wise enough to do some of the kinds of engineering things that people are talking about doing.
Leon KassRead
We should never rush into folly just because other nations are practicing it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote advises against blindly following the actions of others, especially if they are unwise.
Leon Kass emphasizes the importance of independent thought and caution when it comes to decisions, particularly in the context of societal trends. He warns that just because other nations are engaging in unwise practices, it doesn't mean we should follow suit; instead, we should critically evaluate our own actions and their potential consequences.
Themes
WisdomIndependenceCritical ThinkingCautionSociety
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be shared during a discussion on political trends at a community meeting to highlight the importance of independent thought.
More from Leon Kass
All quotes βThere's an ancient tension between wanting to savor the world as it is and wanting to improve on the world as given.
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As bad as it might be to destroy a creature made in God's image, it might be very much worse to be creating them after images of one's own.
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It's a short step from the belief that every child should be wanted to the belief that a child exists to satisfy our wants.
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Sexuality itself means mortality - equally for both man and woman.
Leon KassRead
Human life without death would be something other than human; consciousness of mortality gives rise to out deepest longings and greatest accomplishments.
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