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The pace of science forces the pace of technique. Theoretical physics forces atomic energy on us; the successful production of the fission bomb forces upon us the manufacture of the hydrogen bomb. We do not choose our problems, we do not choose our products; we are pushed, we are forced - by what? By a system which has no purpose and goal transcending it, and which makes man its appendix.

Erich Fromm#30

HumanityProgressAgencyScienceTechnology

About this quote

What does it mean?
Scientific and technological progress forces humans into roles they did not choose, making man a slave to systems without higher purpose. Technology dictates human existence rather than serving it.
In plain terms
Tech advances push us into new problems and products without asking if we want them.
What can you take from it?
Technology should serve human purposes, not dictate them.

Where it applies

  • discussing tech ethics
  • analyzing arms race
  • critiquing scientific progress

Putting it to work

  • regulate tech development
  • prioritize human need in innovation

Questions to consider

  • Who controls the technology you use daily?
  • What goals should science serve?

Another view

It may understate human ability to steer scientific direction.

More from Erich Fromm

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  3. Modern man, if he dared to be articulate about his concept of heaven, would describe a vision which would look like the biggest department store in the world, …

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