None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
How many things there are concerning which we might well deliberate whether we had better know them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the value of knowledge and the deliberation involved in choosing what to learn.
Henry David Thoreau's quote encourages reflection on the nature of knowledge and the complexities of discernment in our learning processes. It suggests that not all information is beneficial or necessary, prompting us to consider the implications of what we choose to know and understand. This contemplation invites a mindful approach to education and awareness, recognizing that some knowledge might not enhance our lives, while other knowledge could be transformative.
Themes
KnowledgeDeliberationLearningPhilosophyUnderstanding
In practice
Example use cases
During a seminar on education, one could use this quote to discuss the importance of critical thinking in what we choose to learn.
More from Henry David Thoreau
All quotes βThrough want of enterprise and faith men are where they are, buying and selling and spending their lives like servants.
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An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.
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Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
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As every season seems best to us in its turn, so the coming in of spring is like the creation of Cosmos out of Chaos and the realization of the Golden Age.
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That grand old poem called Winter
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