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We are like dwarfs on the shoulders of giants, so that we can see more than they.
Bernard Of Chartres
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Interpretation

What this quote means

We gain knowledge and perspective from those who came before us.

This quote by Bernard of Chartres highlights the idea that knowledge and understanding are built upon the contributions of previous thinkers and innovators. By standing on the 'shoulders of giants', we are able to see further and gain insights that were made possible by the efforts and discoveries of those who preceded us. It humbly acknowledges that our achievements are often enabled by the foundation laid by others.

Themes

KnowledgePerspectiveGiantsWisdomLearning

In practice

Example use cases

In a graduation speech to encourage students to embrace their intellectual heritage.

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A little wisdom, now and then

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Quote by Bernard Of Chartres | QuoteProject