It is often seen that in households where all members are exposed to the same danger, or again in schools or troops where everyone lives the same life, disease does not strike everyone indifferently.
Elie MetchnikoffRead
Science, it is said, no doubt has ameliorated the material conditions of human life, but is powerless to solve those moral and philosophical questions that interest cultured people so deeply.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Science improves our physical lives, but it cannot address our deeper moral and philosophical dilemmas.
In this quote, Elie Metchnikoff emphasizes the limitations of science in addressing the profound moral and philosophical questions that affect human existence. While science plays an essential role in enhancing our material comfort and understanding the physical world, it lacks the capacity to tackle the complex ethical and existential issues that resonate with cultured individuals seeking meaning and purpose.
Themes
ScienceMoralityPhilosophyHuman LifeCulture
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on the role of science in society, one might use this quote to highlight the importance of philosophical discussions.
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If you have embraced a creed which appears to be free from the ordinary dirtiness of politics - a creed from which you yourself cannot expect to draw any material advantage - surely that proves that you are in the right?
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