Fullness of knowledge always means some understanding of the depths of our ignorance; and that is always conducive to humility and reverence.
Interpretation
True knowledge acknowledges the limits of our understanding, fostering humility and respect.
This quote by Robert Andrews Millikan emphasizes that possessing knowledge is not merely about accumulating facts, but also involves recognizing the vast areas of ignorance that we still have. Understanding our limitations can cultivate a sense of humility and reverence, prompting us to approach knowledge with respect and an open mind.
In practice
In a lecture on philosophy, one could say, 'As Millikan stated, 'Fullness of knowledge always means some understanding of the depths of our ignorance' to emphasize the importance of humility in learning.
Indeed, I suspect that the changes that have taken place during the last century in the average man's fundamental beliefs, in his philosophy, in his conception of religion, in his whole world outlook, are greater than the changes that occurred during the preceding four thousand years all put together.
This much I can say with definiteness - namely, that there is no scientific basis for the denial of religion - nor is there in my judgment any excuse for a conflict between science and religion, for their fields are entirely different. Men who know very little of science and men who know very little of religion do indeed get to quarreling, and the onlookers imagine that there is a conflict between science and religion, whereas the conflict is only between two different species of ignorance.
Cultivate the habit of attention and try to gain opportunities to hear wise men and women talk. Indifference and inattention are the two most dangerous monsters that you ever meet. Interest and attention will insure to you an education.
Honoring the priesthood fosters respect, respect promotes reverence, and reverence invites revelation.
When you're full of yourself, God can't fill you. But when you empty yourself, God has a useful vessel.
Most people are so distracted by their thoughts, so identified with the voices in their heads, they no longer feel the aliveness within them. To be unable to feel the life that animates the physical body, the very life that you are, is the greatest deprivation that can happen to you.
A man watches his pear-tree day after day, impatient for the ripening of the fruit. Let him attempt to force the process, and he may spoil both fruit and tree. But let him patiently wait, and the ripe pear at length falls into his lap.
At fifteen, beauty and talent do not exist; there can only be promise of the coming woman.
The mind that is wise mourns less for what age takes away; than what it leaves behind.
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