This quote suggests that civilization, in its quest for progress and development, inadvertently creates a series of challenges or ‘evils.’ These could range from environmental degradation to social inequality, mental health issues, etc. The irony lies in the fact that as civilization advances, it must simultaneously find solutions to the very problems it has caused, creating a seemingly endless cycle.

The quote also implies a critique of the concept of ‘progress’ as we understand it. It questions whether advancement, as we define it, truly leads to a better quality of life or merely gives rise to new complexities. It suggests that we might be trapped in a paradox where our solutions often become the source of new problems, leading to a perpetual race.

Applying this idea to today’s world, we see that as technology advances, it brings about new challenges. For instance, the advent of the internet has revolutionized communication and information access, but it has also given rise to issues like cybercrime, online harassment, and the spread of misinformation. Similarly, industrialization has boosted production and economic growth, but it has also led to environmental degradation and climate change. It’s a continuous process of creating and then solving problems.

In terms of personal development, this quote might suggest the need for self-awareness and mindfulness in our quest for personal growth. Often, in our rush to improve, we might create new personal ‘evils’ or problems. For instance, in striving for career success, we might neglect our personal relationships or health. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that our pursuit of growth is balanced and does not lead to other issues.

In essence, the quote is a reminder of the need for holistic and sustainable progress, both at a societal and individual level. It calls for a reevaluation of what we consider ‘progress’ and ‘civilization,’ urging us to ensure that our advancements do not lead to more harm than good.