8.
What!
Was it philosophy that taught the use of keys and bolts?
Nay, what was that except giving a hint to avarice?
Was it philosophy that erected all these towering tenements, so dangerous to the persons who dwell in them?
Was it not enough for man to provide himself a roof of any chance covering, and to contrive for himself some natural retreat without the help of art and without trouble?
Believe me, that was a happy age, before the days of architects, before the days of builders!
Book: Moral Letters Vol II
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On the part played by philosophy in the progress of man
Location: Chapter 90, Section 8
Content:
8.
What!
Was it philosophy that taught the use of keys and bolts?
Nay, what was that except giving a hint to avarice?
Was it philosophy that erected all these towering tenements, so dangerous to the persons who dwell in them?
Was it not enough for man to provide himself a roof of any chance covering, and to contrive for himself some natural retreat without the help of art and without trouble?
Believe me, that was a happy age, before the days of architects, before the days of builders!