Organic life, we are told, has developed gradually from the protozoon to the philosopher, and this development, we are assured, is indubitably an advance. Unfortunately it is the philosopher, not the protozoon, who gives us this assurance.

Summary

This quote sarcastically critiques the notion of human progress. It suggests that the belief in gradual evolution from simple organisms to intellectual beings is flawed, because it is humans (philosophers) who proclaim this to be true. The quote implies that such claims are biased and self-serving, as they elevate the intellect of humans while disregarding the value of simpler forms of life. It questions the objectivity and validity of the assumed superiority of human advancement over other life forms.

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