Skill without wisdom is the cause of our troubles. If they are to be cured, it will be not by a mere increase of skill, but by the growth of such wisdom as the times demand. ... The only thing that will redeem mankind is co-operation, and the first step towards co-operation lies in the hearts of individuals. It is common to wish well to oneself, but in our technically unified world, wishing well to oneself is sure to be futile unless it is combined with wishing well to others.
Source: Bertrand Russell: Human Society in Ethics and Politics, 1954, part II: The Conflict of Passions, chapter 6: Scientific Technique and the Future, n7
More info.： https://russell-j.com/cool/47T-2_0607.htm
* a brief comment:
The sense and sensitivity to language vary from person to person. Am I the only one who feels a slight discomfort in translating 'Skill without wisdom' from today's words of Russell as '知恵を伴わない技能' in Japanese? The word 'skill' does not merely refer to '技術' (technique or method) but rather represents human abilities and actions, making '技能' an appropriate translation. However, perhaps due to the phrase '技能実習生' (technical intern trainee) being ingrained in my mind, I momentarily find it odd.
Furthermore, the word 'redeem' in this context is used with the meaning of 'saving.' I asked ChatGPT for three examples where 'redeem' is used in this sense, and here are the examples provided:
'Only love and compassion can redeem a soul lost in hatred.'
'The hero’s sacrifice redeemed the people from their suffering.'
'Faith in humanity is what will redeem us from despair.'
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