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About this quote

What does it mean?
The future is not determined solely by human intent or existence.
In plain terms
Humans do not fully control what comes next.
What can you take from it?
Do not assume you own the future.

Where it applies

  • philosophical debate
  • strategic planning
  • existential reflection

Putting it to work

  • prepare for uncertainty
  • accept limits
  • plan contingencies

Questions to consider

  • Who controls the future?
  • What limits human agency?

Another view

Human actions do significantly shape future outcomes.

More from Charles de Gaulle

  1. Men can have friends, statesmen cannot.

    Permalink to quote #15

  2. Patriotism is when love of your own people comes first; nationalism, when hate for people other than your own comes first.

    Permalink to quote #17

  3. I am not ill. But do not worry, one day, I will certainly die.

    Permalink to quote #14

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