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
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.
In practice
This quote could be shared during a discussion on political trends at a community meeting to highlight the importance of independent thought.
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.
There's an ancient tension between wanting to savor the world as it is and wanting to improve on the world as given.
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.
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.
Sexuality itself means mortality - equally for both man and woman.
Human life without death would be something other than human; consciousness of mortality gives rise to out deepest longings and greatest accomplishments.
By not caring too much about what people think, I'm able to think for myself and propagate ideas which are very often unpopular. And I succeed.
If you set out to meditate, it will not be meditation. If you set out to be good, goodness will never flower.
I'm on the record for five losses or something like that, but the one guy who really whipped me was Muhammad Ali. And it taught me one big lesson. That no matter how big and strong you are, you're going to have to use your mind. You must think things out.
A diamond was laying in the street covered with dirt. Many fools passed by. Someone who knew diamonds picked it up.
Question everything. Every stripe, every star, every word spoken. Everything.
When you have no experience of pain, it is rather hard to experience joy.
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