The Greeks possessed a knowledge of human nature we seem hardly able to attain to without passing through the strengthening hibernation of a new barbarism.
Georg C. LichtenbergRead
Much reading has brought upon us a learned barbarism.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that excessive reading can lead to a superficial understanding of knowledge.
Georg C. Lichtenberg's quote implies that while reading is an essential source of knowledge, an overindulgence can result in a lack of true comprehension and critical thinking, leading to a form of intellectual barbarism where one may possess knowledge without the wisdom to apply it effectively. It serves as a caution against complacency in learning solely through books without engaging in deeper discussions or practical experiences.
Themes
ReadingKnowledgeWisdomUnderstandingComprehension
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the importance of critical thinking in education, this quote can be included to illustrate the dangers of passive learning.
More from Georg C. Lichtenberg
All quotes βMany things about our bodies would not seem to us so filthy and obscene if we did not have the idea of nobility in our heads.
Georg C. LichtenbergRead
Astronomy is perhaps the science whose discoveries owe least to chance, in which human understanding appears in its whole magnitude, and through which man can best learn how small he is.
Georg C. LichtenbergRead
The thoughts written on the walls of madhouses by their inmates might be worth publicizing.
Georg C. LichtenbergRead
The noble simplicity in the works of nature only too often originates in the noble shortsightedness of him who observes it.
Georg C. LichtenbergRead
Food probably has a very great influence on the condition of men. Wine exercises a more visible influence, food does it more slowly but perhaps just as surely. Who knows if a well-prepared soup was not responsible for the pneumatic pump or a poor one for a war?
Georg C. LichtenbergRead
Similar quotes
There is always room for a man of force and he makes room for many. Society is a troop of thinkers and the best heads among them take the best places.
Ralph Waldo EmersonRead
The experienced writer says to the anguished novice: 'Just do it; get something, anything, on to the screen or page, just establish a flow of words, and criticise them later.' You give this advice but can't always take it.
Hilary MantelRead
Seek first to understand, then to be understood.
Stephen CoveyRead
The development of our minds and our destination in future lives is in our hands. No one else can help us. It is very important that we each take responsibility for ourselves. Sustain mindfulness 24 hours a day. Thank you. That is all.
Dalai LamaRead
It is great that even before we become enlightened or generate any lam-rim realizations we are able to offer incredible benefit to others. The person who does this is a very fortunate person and should rejoice very often.
Thubten Zopa RinpocheRead
Knowledge may give weight, but accomplishments give luster, and many more people see than weigh.
Lord ChesterfieldRead