"There is no great invention, from fire to flying, which has not been hailed as an insult to some god"
- John B. S. Haldane
About this Quote
In this quote, John B. S. Haldane is suggesting that throughout history, every substantial innovation has been met with criticism and opposition from those who view it as a difficulty to the power of a greater being. From the discovery of fire to the ability to fly, each improvement has actually been seen as a hazard to the authority of a god or gods. This highlights the human propensity to withstand modification and cling to traditional beliefs, even in the face of progress. Haldane's words function as a pointer that innovation and progress typically come with resistance, however ultimately lead to excellent developments for humanity.
"To be really great in little things, to be truly noble and heroic in the insipid details of everyday life, is a virtue so rare as to be worthy of canonization"
"Having soon discovered to be great, I must appear so, and therefore studiously avoided mixing in society, and wrapped myself in mystery, devoting my time to fasting and prayer"