"Few can contemplate without a sense of exhilaration the splendid achievements of practical energy and technical skill, which, from the latter part of the seventeenth century, were transforming the face of material civilization, and of which England was the daring, if not too scrupulous, pioneer"

E. F. Schumacher's quote assesses the transformative duration start in the latter part of the seventeenth century, identified by exceptional developments in innovation and market. Schumacher highlights the sense of enjoyment that numerous feel when thinking about the extensive achievements produced by human resourcefulness, practical energy, and technical skill throughout this period. This period, often related to the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, marked a significant change in product civilization. It witnessed extraordinary development in areas like manufacturing, transport, and interaction, which dramatically modified the financial and social landscapes.

The quote acknowledges England's pivotal role as a leader in this transformation, highlighting the country's bold technique to industrialization. Schumacher suggests that England's pioneering spirit was not exclusively based on boldness however also on pragmatism and a determination to take risks, even if it in some cases verged on being deceitful. This referral may mention the various ways through which commercial and economic development was attained-- including the exploitation of natural and human resources, such as the labor-intensive practices in factories and the dependence on colonial resources.

Schumacher's usage of the words "few can ponder without a sense of exhilaration" recommends that most people view these advancements with affection and wonder, valuing the exceptional strides made in enhancing human life and society's capabilities. He means a duality: while the achievements in market and technology were indeed stunning and revolutionary, they likewise featured ethical and moral factors to consider. The development accomplished typically included significant sacrifices and effects, raising questions about the balance in between development and ethical duty.

Overall, the quote encapsulates a mix of adoration and caution-- celebrating the resourcefulness and boldness of this transformative period, while also implying a requirement to assess the ethical dimensions of development.