A blank wall of social and professional antagonism faces the woman physician that forms a situation of singular and painful loneliness, leaving her without support, respect or professional counsel.
Elizabeth BlackwellRead
It is well worth the efforts of a lifetime to have attained knowledge which justifies an attack on the root of all evil ... which asserts that because forms of evil have always existed in society, therefore they must always exist.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The pursuit of knowledge is crucial for challenging and understanding the nature of evil in society.
In this quote, Elizabeth Blackwell emphasizes that gaining knowledge throughout one's life is a valuable endeavor, particularly because it equips individuals to confront and question the idea that evil is an inherent part of human society. She critiques the notion that since evil has always been present, it is inevitable; instead, she advocates for the pursuit of understanding as a means to challenge and potentially eradicate the roots of evil.
Themes
KnowledgeEvilSocietyUnderstandingWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on education reform, one might use this quote to inspire students to pursue knowledge.
More from Elizabeth Blackwell
All quotes →It is not easy to be a pioneer - but oh, it is fascinating!
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None of us can know what we are capable of until we are tested.
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I must have something to engross my thoughts, some object in life which will fill this vacuum, and prevent this sad wearing away of the heart.
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It is not easy to be a pioneer but oh, it is fascinating! I would not trade one moment, even the worst moment, for all the riches in the world.
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If society will not admit of woman's free development, then society must be remodeled.
Elizabeth BlackwellRead
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