Don't take the will for the deed; get the deed

Don't take the will for the deed; get the deed

Lewis Mumford was a prominent American historian, sociologist, and philosopher known for his writings on urban planning, architecture, technology, and the environment. One of his famous quotes is "Don't take the will for the deed; get the deed." This statement encapsulates Mumford's belief in the importance of action and implementation over mere intention or desire.

In the context of Mumford's work, this quote can be interpreted as a call to action and a reminder of the importance of tangible results. Mumford was a strong advocate for social change and believed that ideas and theories alone were not enough to bring about meaningful progress. Instead, he emphasized the need for concrete actions and practical solutions to address the challenges facing society.

Mumford's writings often focused on the impact of technology and urbanization on human society and the environment. He was critical of the unchecked growth of cities and the negative consequences of industrialization, such as pollution, overcrowding, and social inequality. Mumford believed that these problems could not be solved through mere rhetoric or good intentions; they required real, tangible changes in the way society was organized and structured.

For Mumford, the "deed" was the actual implementation of policies and practices that would lead to a more sustainable and equitable society. He believed that individuals and communities needed to take concrete steps to address the root causes of social and environmental problems, rather than simply talking about them or hoping for change to happen on its own.