QuoteProject
Progress depends on our brain. The most important part of our brain, that which is neocortical, must be used to help others and not just to make discoveries.
Rita Levi-Montalcini
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Progress is linked to the use of our brains, particularly in helping others rather than solely pursuing knowledge for its own sake.

In this quote, Rita Levi-Montalcini emphasizes the importance of using our intellect, specifically our neocortex, not just for personal advancement or scientific discovery, but for the betterment of society. She suggests that true progress is achieved when we apply our knowledge and skills to assist others, highlighting the ethical responsibility of using our brainpower for the greater good.

Themes

ProgressBrainHelping OthersNeocortexDiscovery

In practice

Example use cases

During a speech at a charity event, one might say, 'As Rita Levi-Montalcini wisely noted, progress depends on how we use our brain to help others.'

More from Rita Levi-Montalcini

Above all, don’t fear difficult moments. The best comes from them
Rita Levi-MontalciniRead
My life has been enriched by excellent human relations, work and interests. I have never felt lonely.
Rita Levi-MontalciniRead
I tell young people: Do not think of yourself, think of others. Think of the future that awaits you, think about what you can do and do not fear anything.
Rita Levi-MontalciniRead
If I had not been discriminated against or had not suffered persecution, I would never have received the Nobel Prize.
Rita Levi-MontalciniRead
After centuries of dormancy, young women... can now look toward a future moulded by their own hands.
Rita Levi-MontalciniRead
A child from the age of 2 or 3 absorbs what is in the environment and what generates hatred for anyone perceived to be different.
Rita Levi-MontalciniRead

Similar quotes

Wise men say, and not without reason, that whosoever wished to foresee the future might consult the past.
Niccolo MachiavelliRead
I don't think you should write a book until you tell the absolute truth. You can't do that until you're 85, and I don't want to live that long. I've always prided myself on knowing when to get off, and I hope it works out that way.
Lucille BallRead
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow men. True nobility lies in being superior to your former self.
Ernest HemingwayRead
There are no means of attaining faith and certainty except through the Qur'an.
Ibn Qayyim Al-JawziyyaRead
When the basis for your actions is inner alignment with the present moment, your actions become empowered by the intelligence of life itself.
Eckhart TolleRead
A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to get its pants on.
Winston ChurchillRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.