As geographers, Sosius, crowd into the edges of their maps parts of the world which they do not know about, adding notes in the margin to the effect that beyond this lies nothing but sandy deserts full of wild beasts, and unapproachable bogs.
Interpretation
The quote illustrates the tendency to fear the unknown and fill gaps in knowledge with assumptions.
In this quote, Plutarch uses the metaphor of geographers who draw maps to highlight how people often confront the unknown with fear and conjecture. The geographers' annotations suggest that what lies beyond their knowledge is inhospitable and perilous, reflecting a common human inclination to avoid exploring unfamiliar territories, whether in thought, experience, or understanding. This captures the essence of how ignorance can breed misconceptions and hinder the pursuit of knowledge.
In practice
This quote can be used in a discussion about the importance of facing fears and embracing the unknown.
Sometimes small incidents, rather than glorious exploits, give us the best evidence of character. So, as portrait painters are more exact in doing the face, where the character is revealed, than the rest of the body, I must be allowed to give my more particular attention to the marks of the souls of men.
It were better to have no opinion of God at all than such a one as is unworthy of him; for the one is only belief - the other contempt.
Come back with your shield - or on it
The richest soil, if uncultivated, produces the rankest weeds.
For the correct analogy for the mind is not a vessel that needs filling, but wood that needs igniting.
Our senses through ignorance of Reality, falsely tell us that what appears to be, is. FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real
The threat of China is not military. The threat of China is they can't be intimidated. Europe you can intimidate. When the US tries to get people to stop investing in Iran, European companies pull out, China disregards it. You look at history and understand why - they've been around for 4,000 years, they have contempt for the barbarians, they just don't give a damn.
Dwell in peace in the home of your own being, and the Messenger of Death will not be able to touch you.
Cities are erected on spiritual columns. Like giant mirrors, they reflect the hearts of their residents. If those hearts darken and lose faith, cities will lose their glamour.
If we are to keep democracy, there must be a commandment: Thou shalt not ration justice.
Do you understand, sir, do you understand what it means when you have absolutely nowhere to turn?" Marmeladov's question came suddenly into his mind "for every man must have somewhere to turn.
An almost perfect relationship with his father was the earthly root of all his wisdom. From his own father, he said, he first learned that Fatherhood must be at the core of the universe. [speaking of George MacDonald]
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