The generality of virtuous women are like hidden treasures, they are safe only because nobody has sought after them.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
To understand matters rightly we should understand their details; and as that knowledge is almost infinite, our knowledge is always superficial and imperfect.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Understanding complex matters requires attention to details, but our limited knowledge means we can never fully grasp their entirety.
This quote from Francois De La Rochefoucauld highlights the importance of details in comprehending complex subjects. It suggests that while a deep understanding is essential for accuracy, the vastness of knowledge renders our understanding inherently limited and imperfect. It reflects on the pursuit of knowledge and the humility required in acknowledging our limitations.
Themes
UnderstandingKnowledgeDetailsWisdomHumility
In practice
Example use cases
In a classroom setting to discuss the importance of in-depth analysis in education.
More from Francois De La Rochefoucauld
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Some counterfeits reproduce so very well the truth that it would be a flaw of judgment not to be deceived by them.
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Conceit causes more conversation than wit.
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The defects and faults of the mind are like wounds in the body; after all imaginable care has been taken to heal them up, still there will be a scar left behind, and they are in continual danger of breaking the skin and bursting out again.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
In most of mankind gratitude is merely a secret hope of further favors.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
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