To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
To inquisitive minds like yours and mine the reflection that the quantity of human knowledge bears no proportion to the quantity of human ignorance must be in one view rather pleasing, viz., that though we are to live forever we may be continually amused and delighted with learning something new.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the contrast between human knowledge and ignorance, suggesting that curiosity and learning are endless sources of joy.
Benjamin Franklin's quote reflects on the nature of human knowledge and ignorance, suggesting that while we may never fully grasp everything there is to know, the continuous journey of learning provides a delightful pursuit. This endless quest for knowledge invites inquisitive minds to embrace the joy of discovering new insights, emphasizing the enriching nature of education and intellectual curiosity.
Themes
KnowledgeIgnoranceLearningCuriosityWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a lecture about continuous learning.
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes →He'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
Benjamin FranklinRead
I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Similar quotes
Our defense is in the preservation of the spirit which prizes liberty as a heritage of all men, in all lands, everywhere. Destroy this spirit and you have planted the seeds of despotism around your own doors.
Abraham LincolnRead
Even today, I dare not say that I have reached a state of achievement. I'm still learning, for learning is boundless.
Bruce LeeRead
Even without success, creative persons find joy in a job well done. Learning for its own sake is rewarding.
Mihaly CsikszentmihalyiRead
Listen to many, speak to a few.
William ShakespeareRead
We keep so busy talking we are so keen to act that we forget that in the heart lies all we need untapped, intact.
Angelus SilesiusRead
I've always known I was gifted, which is not the easiest thing in the world for a person to know, because you're not responsible for your gift, only for what you do with it.
Hazel ScottRead