None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
The process of discovery is very simple. An unwearied and systematic application of known laws to nature, causes the unknown to reveal themselves. Almost any mode of observation will be successful at last, for what is most wanted is method.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Discovery is achieved through persistence and systematic observation of nature using established principles.
Henry David Thoreau emphasizes that the journey of discovery is fundamentally straightforward when one diligently applies known principles to the natural world. He suggests that with consistent effort and a methodical approach, the unknown can eventually be uncovered, indicating that the key to successful observation lies in having a structured method rather than relying solely on specific techniques or conditions.
Themes
DiscoveryObservationNatureMethodScience
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used to inspire students in a science class to approach experiments with a methodical mindset.
More from Henry David Thoreau
All quotes →Through want of enterprise and faith men are where they are, buying and selling and spending their lives like servants.
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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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