“As the eagle was killed by the arrow winged with his own feather, so the hand of the world is wounded by its own skill.”
- June 27, 1880 – June 1, 1968
- American
- Author, educator, human rights activist
- Although she lost her sight and hearing due to an illness in her childhood, she engaged in various social activities, such as supporting the visually and hearing impaired and promoting women’s rights.
Quote
“As the eagle was killed by the arrow winged with his own feather, so the hand of the world is wounded by its own skill.”
Explanation
In this quote, Helen Keller presents a paradox about the relationship between human progress and its potential for harm. She compares the eagle, which is killed by an arrow made from its own feathers, to the world that is harmed by the very skills and advancements it has created. Keller suggests that while human innovation and skill have led to tremendous achievements, they can also result in self-destruction or negative consequences. This could be interpreted as a warning about the dangers of overreliance on technology, power, or progress, and how these can sometimes backfire if not wielded with wisdom and responsibility.
Keller’s belief in the moral responsibility of individuals and society is reflected in this quote. Throughout her life, Keller advocated for social justice, equality, and human rights. She understood that while humans have the potential for great achievements, these achievements must be tempered with a sense of ethical responsibility and concern for others. Just as the eagle, in its own nature, becomes its own downfall, Keller’s quote serves as a reminder that the tools and technologies we develop should be used mindfully to ensure they do not harm us or others.
In the modern world, Keller’s words are highly relevant as we face challenges such as environmental degradation, technological misuse, and political instability, all of which are often the byproducts of our own advancements. The progress we have made in fields such as medicine, industry, and communication has brought great benefits, but it has also led to unforeseen consequences. Keller’s quote reminds us to approach our skills, technology, and power with care and thoughtfulness, ensuring that the tools we create do not ultimately lead to harm. It calls for a balanced approach where wisdom and ethical responsibility guide the use of human skill and knowledge.
