A great power imposes the obligation of exercising restraint, and we did not live up to this obligation. I think this affected many of the scientists in a subtle sense, and it diminished their desire to continue to work on the bomb.
Leo SzilardRead
I have been asked whether I would agree that the tragedy of the scientist is that he is able to bring about great advances in our knowledge, which mankind may then proceed to use for purposes of destruction. My answer is that this is not the tragedy of the scientist; it is the tragedy of mankind.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the responsibility of humanity in using knowledge for both progress and destruction.
Leo Szilard highlights a critical concern regarding scientific progress and its potential misuse. While scientists contribute significantly to knowledge and innovation, the real tragedy lies in the moral choices made by mankind in applying that knowledge for harmful purposes. This serves as a reminder that advances in science come with ethical responsibilities, and the onus is on society to use such advances wisely.
Themes
ScienceKnowledgeDestructionResponsibilityMankind
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a speech about the ethical implications of scientific research in universities.
More from Leo Szilard
All quotes →A scientist's aim in a discussion with his colleagues is not to persuade, but to clarify.
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Those individuals who give moral considerations a much greater weight than considerations of expediency represent a comparatively small minority, five percent of the people perhaps. But, In spite of their numerical inferiority, they play a major role in our society because theirs is the voice of the conscience of society.
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Even if we accept, as the basic tenet of true democracy, that one moron is equal to one genius, is it necessary to go a further step and hold that two morons are better than one genius?
Leo SzilardRead
If one knows only what one is told, one does not know enough to be able to arrive at a well-balanced decision.
Leo SzilardRead
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