“Well, I mean, yes idealism, yes the dignity of pure research, yes the pursuit of truth in all its forms, but there comes a point I'm afraid where you begin to suspect that the entire multidimensional infinity of the Universe is almost certainly being run by a bunch of maniacs. And if it comes to a choice between spending yet another ten million years finding that out, and on the other hand just taking the money and running, then I for one could do with the exercise.”
Quote Analysis
In this quote by Douglas Adams, the character expresses a cynicism towards the pursuit of knowledge and truth in the face of the chaotic and seemingly nonsensical nature of the universe. The character acknowledges the value of ideals like idealism and pure research, but ultimately questions the purpose of continuing to search for answers when the universe appears to be controlled by irrational forces. The quote reflects a sense of resignation and a desire for simplicity and practicality, rather than endless intellectual pursuits.
Modern Relevance of Douglas Adams' Quote
In this quote from Douglas Adams, the character expresses a feeling of disillusionment with the pursuit of knowledge and truth in the face of what seems like chaos and incompetence governing the universe. This sentiment resonates in modern times as people may feel overwhelmed by the complexities and uncertainties of the world around them. The idea of questioning the value of endless pursuit of knowledge versus practicality is a theme that continues to be relevant today.
Douglas Adams on Idealism and Money
“Well, I mean, yes idealism, yes the dignity of pure research, yes the pursuit of truth in all its forms, but there comes a point I'm afraid where you begin to suspect that the entire multidimensional infinity of the Universe is almost certainly being run by a bunch of maniacs. And if it comes to a choice between spending yet another ten million years finding that out, and on the other hand just taking the money and running, then I for one could do with the exercise.” - Douglas Adams
Reflection Questions
In Douglas Adams' quote, he touches on themes of idealism, the pursuit of truth, and the frustration that comes with the seemingly chaotic nature of the universe. Reflect on the following questions:
- How do you balance idealistic pursuits with practical considerations in your own life?
- Have you ever felt disillusioned by the complexities and uncertainties of the world around you?
- In what situations do you feel compelled to just "take the money and run" rather than continue on a difficult or unclear path?
- How do you maintain a sense of humor and perspective when faced with challenges or uncertainties in your life?
- Do you believe that there is an underlying order or purpose to the universe, or do you relate more to Adams' sentiment of cosmic madness?
Similar quotes
“If there's any real truth, it's that the entire multidimensional infinity of the Universe is almost certainly being run by a bunch of maniacs.”
“When spring knocks at your door, regardless of the time of year or season of our lives, run, do not walk to that door, throw it open with wild abandon, and say, "Yes! Yes, come in! Do me, and do me big!”
“Yes," Vorkosigan agreed, "I could take over the universe with this army if I could ever get all their weapons pointed in the same direction.”
“The two men sat silent for a little, and then Lord Peter said: "D'you like your job?" The detective considered the question, and replied: "Yes—yes, I do. I know it to be useful, and I am fitted to it. I do it quite well—not with inspiration, perhaps, but sufficiently well to take a pride in it. It is full of variety and it forces one to keep up to the mark and not get slack. And there's a future to it. Yes, I like it. Why?" "Oh, nothing," said Peter. "It's a hobby to me, you see. I took it up when the bottom of things was rather knocked out for me, because it was so damned exciting, and the worst of it is, I enjoy it—up to a point. If it was all on paper I'd enjoy every bit of it. I love the beginning of a job—when one doesn't know any of the people and it's just exciting and amusing. But if it comes to really running down a live person and getting him hanged, or even quodded, poor devil, there don't seem as if there was any excuse for me buttin' in, since I don't have to make my livin' by it. And I feel as if I oughtn't ever to find it amusin'. But I do.”
“Find a way to say yes to things. Say yes to invitations to a new country, say yes to meet new friends, say yes to learn something new. Yes is how you get your first job, and your next job, and your spouse, and even your kids. Even if it's a bit edgy, a bit out of your comfort zone, saying yes means that you will do something new, meet someone new, and make a difference. Yes lets you stand out in a crowd, be the optimist, see the glass full, be the one everyone comes to. Yes is what keeps us all young.”