Crafty men condemn studies; Simple men admire them; And wise men use them: For they teach not their own use: but that is a wisdom without them, and above them, won by observation.

Crafty men condemn studies; Simple men admire them; And wise men use them: For they teach not their own use: but that is a wisdom without them, and above them, won by observation.

📖 Francis Bacon

🌍 English  |  👨‍💼 Philosopher

🎂 January 22, 1561  –  ⚰️ April 9, 1626
(0 Reviews)

This quote beautifully encapsulates the varying attitudes toward knowledge and learning among different types of individuals. The 'crafty men' who condemn studies may do so to justify their cunning or to reject formal or structured forms of education, perhaps viewing them as unnecessary or limiting their ingenuity. Conversely, 'simple men' who admire studies recognize the value of acquiring knowledge, yet may lack the insight to utilize it effectively. The truly wise individuals, however, transcend mere admiration or condemnation; they actively incorporate knowledge into their understanding of the world. They recognize that studying provides foundational tools and insights, but the real wisdom lies in how these insights are applied through observation and experience. Wisdom is therefore depicted as something higher and more refined—an emergent property of perceptive engagement with reality, rather than just accumulation of facts. It emphasizes that the highest form of understanding is achieved through practical application and keen observation, rather than reliance on rote learning alone. This perspective encourages us to see knowledge not as an end in itself but as a means to cultivate deeper awareness and insight. It reminds us of the importance of applying learned principles thoughtfully and adaptively, transforming theoretical knowledge into wise action. In today's information-rich era, this quote remains profoundly relevant, urging us to go beyond superficial learning and strive for genuine comprehension through active engagement with the world around us.

Page views
0
Update
June 28, 2025

Rate the Quote

Add Comment & Review

User Reviews

Based on 0 reviews
5 Star
0
4 Star
0
3 Star
0
2 Star
0
1 Star
0
Add Comment & Review
We'll never share your email with anyone else.