Quotes:

Nor may we define progress in terms of happiness, for idiots are happier than geniuses, and those whom we most respect seek not happiness but greatness

Let us provisionally define progress as increasing control of the environment by life, and let us mean by environment all the circumstances that condition the coordination and realization of desire. Progress is the domination of chaos by mind and purpose, of matter by form and will.

Voltaire might say, ìI have no scepter, but I have a pen.