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A learned blockhead is a greater blockhead than an ignorant one.
Benjamin Franklin
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Knowledge can lead to greater foolishness if not accompanied by wisdom.

This quote highlights the idea that simply possessing knowledge does not equate to wisdom. A 'learned blockhead' refers to an educated person who lacks practical sense or judgment, suggesting that education without wisdom can lead to greater folly than ignorance itself. It emphasizes the importance of understanding and applying knowledge wisely rather than just accumulating facts.

Themes

KnowledgeWisdomFoolishnessEducationJudgment

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion on critical thinking, one might say this quote to emphasize the need for wisdom in using knowledge.

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A little wisdom, now and then

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