The paper is patient, but the reader is not.
Joseph JoubertRead
Common sense suits itself to the ways of the world. Wisdom tries to confirm to the ways of heaven.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote contrasts common sense and wisdom, highlighting their differing approaches to understanding the world and our existence.
Joseph Joubert's quote reflects the distinction between common sense, which adapts to societal norms and practical realities, and wisdom, which aspires to align with higher moral or spiritual truths. While common sense is often pragmatic and grounded in the familiar patterns of the world, wisdom seeks to go beyond these confines, aiming to understand deeper principles that govern existence and morality.
Themes
WisdomCommon SenseUnderstandingTruthKnowledge
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about the importance of critical thinking in education.
More from Joseph Joubert
All quotes βTIME and truth are friends, though there are many moments hostile to truth.
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A work is perfectly finished only when nothing can be added to it and nothing taken away.
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We live in an age in which superfluous ideas abound and essential ideas are lacking.
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Words, like glasses, obscure everything they do not make clear. Before using a fine word, make a place for it.
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Before using a fine word, make a place for it.
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