One machine can do the work of fifty ordinary men. No machine can do the work of one extraordinary man

One machine can do the work of fifty ordinary men. No machine can do the work of one extraordinary man

Elbert Hubbard, a renowned American writer, publisher, and philosopher, once famously said, "One machine can do the work of fifty ordinary men. No machine can do the work of one extraordinary man." This quote encapsulates Hubbard's belief in the power of human ingenuity and creativity over the efficiency of machines.

Hubbard was a firm believer in the value of individualism and the unique abilities that each person possesses. He believed that while machines may be able to perform tasks more quickly and efficiently than humans, they lack the creativity, intuition, and passion that make humans truly extraordinary. In Hubbard's view, it is the extraordinary individuals who push the boundaries of what is possible, who innovate, who inspire others, and who ultimately shape the course of history.

Hubbard's own life and work exemplified this belief in the power of the individual. As the founder of the Roycroft artisan community in East Aurora, New York, Hubbard championed the arts and crafts movement and sought to revive the values of craftsmanship, creativity, and individual expression in a rapidly industrializing world. He believed that true greatness lay in the ability to create something unique and meaningful, rather than simply producing goods in mass quantities.

Hubbard's philosophy also extended to his writing and publishing endeavors. He was a prolific author and publisher, known for his essays, short stories, and inspirational writings. Through his work, Hubbard sought to inspire others to embrace their own creativity and to strive for excellence in all that they do.