"As well might it be said that, because we are ignorant of the laws by which metals are produced and trees developed, we cannot know anything of the origin of steamships and railways"
- Alfred Russel Wallace
About this Quote
In this quote, Alfred Russel Wallace is making a comparison between our understanding of natural processes and our understanding of manufactured developments. He argues that just because we might not completely understand the clinical laws behind the creation of metals and trees, it does not suggest that we can not comprehend the origins of steamships and railways. Wallace is suggesting that our lack of understanding about particular natural phenomena should not prevent our capability to comprehend and value the advancements made by humans. Basically, he is stressing the value of looking beyond our minimal understanding and recognizing the resourcefulness and development of human innovation.
"One has children in the expectation of dying before them. In fact, you want to make damn sure you die before them, just as you plant a tree or build a house knowing, hoping that it will outlive you. That's how the human species has done as well as it has"
"Well, I think any time you delve into this sort of religion, politics, as you well know, you're going to, you know, touch a few nerves. I wasn't - now - and this is the honest truth"
