ARRAF AHMED
QUOTE:
“Ever since history began, the majority of mankind have lived under a load of poverty and suffering and cruelty, and have felt themselves impotent under the sway of hostile or coldly impersonal powers. These evils are no longer necessary to the existence of civilisation; they can be removed by the help of modern science and modern technique, provided these are used in a humane spirit and with an understanding of the springs of life and happiness.”
RESPONSE:
I believe that this quote from the lecture properly represents the entire lecture because of the way that it summarizes the main points included within the reading. Throughout the reading, Russell stresses the matter of happiness and resentment towards those who are abusive of power. He explains how power can be organized in a way that is beneficial towards an entire group, as opposed to an individual, with examples of the workplace, as well as within countries. The changes to the system is what he refers to within the lecture, which is seen through his statement of “modern science and modern technique”. This quote connects to the past readings and ideologies because of the significance surrounded around less power for one and more power for the many. He is persistent with his views about people and civilization.
I agree that the quote helps to summarize the topic of Lecture 4. We have been able to overcome difficulties with the help of technology. It is in our nature for humans to always evolve for the better. This is done with modern science and modern technique. Pretty soon, today’s modern will be referred to as old, because of our swift progression. It is in human nature that one’s power to be used for one’s own profit.
I also found the modern science part interesting because it made me think back to lecture #3: the role of individuality where he talks about the power of science . This quote does agree with that idea because we see the power of science in play. It’s interesting how modern science is thought of to be able to remove “these evils”.
Alisha Alex
I agree with your point, and definitely think that the quote does perfectly summarize the main ideas of Lecture 4. Our human nature has competition embedded in it, always striving to be the best among others. This quote summarizes how poverty and misery are no longer essential to the existence of civilization. He believes that “modern science” can help eliminated the wrongs, to provide happiness.