Table of Contents
The masses suffer through 12 years of formal education. The nobler among us seek knowledge throughout their life for its own sake.
Education, self-education, and lifelong learning are about more than simply memorizing a list of facts. It is about learning how to think much more than it is about knowing what to think.
Practical skills are important, but so is “useless” knowledge. We learn not to become better salesmen or more accomplished golfers, but because we seek knowledge for its own sake. Knowledge needs no excuse — it is simply better to know than to not know.
But knowledge does have benefits: We become more well-rounded people. We gain nuance in our view of the world. And the brain is like a muscle — it atrophies when not put to use.
Whether learning a new skill or simply burying your face in great works of philosophy or literature, knowledge always gives more than it takes.
The Principles of Lifelong Learning Quotes
Henry Ford
“Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young.”
Henry Ford’s quote encapsulates the timeless importance of continuous learning and personal growth. He suggests that age is not the determining factor of one’s vitality or youthfulness; rather, it is the willingness to engage in ongoing learning and self-improvement that keeps individuals young at heart and mind. Ford emphasizes the dynamic nature of human development, highlighting the idea that learning is a lifelong journey that transcends age. This quote serves as a reminder of the transformative power of education and curiosity in maintaining vitality and staying relevant in an ever-changing world.
Albert Einstein
“Wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it.”
Albert Einstein’s quote challenges the conventional notion that wisdom is solely acquired through formal education. Instead, he suggests that wisdom emerges from a continuous and active pursuit throughout one’s life. Einstein emphasizes the importance of ongoing learning and personal development in attaining wisdom, indicating that it is not merely a byproduct of schooling but rather a result of persistent effort and curiosity. This quote underscores the idea that wisdom is a dynamic and evolving process, shaped by individual experiences, reflections, and insights gained over time. It serves as a reminder of the value of lifelong learning and the journey towards greater understanding and enlightenment.
Voltaire
“The more I read, the more I acquire, the more certain I am that I know nothing.”
– Voltaire
Voltaire’s quote encapsulates the humbling realization that the more one learns and acquires knowledge, the more they become aware of their own limitations and ignorance. He suggests that as one delves deeper into various subjects and accumulates information, they come to realize the vastness and complexity of the world, leading to a sense of humility and acknowledgment of their own intellectual shortcomings. This quote underscores the idea that true wisdom involves recognizing the limitations of one’s understanding and remaining open to continuous learning and exploration. It serves as a reminder of the ever-expanding nature of knowledge and the importance of maintaining intellectual curiosity and humility in the pursuit of truth.
Plato
“To conquer oneself is the best and noblest victory; to be vanquished by one’s own nature is the worst and most ignoble defeat.”
– Plato
Plato’s quote encapsulates the profound importance of self-mastery and inner strength in the journey of personal growth and development. He suggests that the greatest triumph one can achieve is overcoming their own weaknesses, desires, and limitations. This conquest of oneself represents a noble victory, highlighting the ability to transcend one’s own nature and rise above internal obstacles. Conversely, Plato emphasizes that succumbing to one’s own flaws and impulses is the ultimate defeat, characterized by a loss of integrity and dignity. This quote underscores the significance of self-awareness, self-discipline, and moral courage in the pursuit of excellence and virtue. It serves as a timeless reminder of the transformative power of self-mastery in shaping one’s character and destiny.
Michael Faraday
“I will simply express my strong belief, that that point of self-education which consists in teaching the mind to resist its desires and inclinations, until they are proved to be right, is the most important of all, not only in things of natural philosophy, but in every department of daily life.”
Michael Faraday’s quote underscores the critical role of self-discipline and critical thinking in the pursuit of knowledge and personal development. He emphasizes the importance of training the mind to resist immediate desires and inclinations until they are validated through reason and evidence. Faraday suggests that this form of self-education is paramount not only in scientific inquiry but also in navigating the complexities of everyday life. By advocating for the cultivation of intellectual rigor and skepticism, he highlights the significance of questioning assumptions and subjecting beliefs to scrutiny. This quote serves as a timeless reminder of the value of intellectual integrity and the pursuit of truth through disciplined inquiry.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“Everybody wants to be somebody; nobody wants to grow.”
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s quote encapsulates a fundamental aspect of human nature, highlighting the desire for recognition and significance alongside a reluctance to undergo the necessary process of personal growth and development. He suggests that many individuals aspire to achieve greatness or distinction, yet few are willing to invest the effort and commitment required for genuine growth. Goethe’s quote serves as a poignant commentary on the human tendency to prioritize external validation and status over the internal work of self-improvement and maturation. It prompts reflection on the importance of embracing the journey of personal growth, even when it requires stepping out of the comfort zone and confronting challenges along the way.
Oscar Wilde
“The aim of life is self-development. To realize one’s nature perfectly – that is what each of us is here for.”
Oscar Wilde’s quote encapsulates a profound perspective on the purpose of life. He suggests that the ultimate goal of existence is not external achievements or societal accolades but rather the continuous process of self-development and self-realization. Wilde emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing one’s own nature, striving to actualize one’s potential to the fullest extent possible. This quote encourages individuals to embark on a journey of introspection, growth, and authenticity, recognizing that true fulfillment comes from aligning with one’s inherent essence and purpose. It serves as a reminder of the intrinsic value of personal growth and the pursuit of self-actualization in the human experience.
Jean-Paul Sartre
“We only become what we are by the radical and deep-seated refusal of that which others have made of us.”
Jean-Paul Sartre’s quote speaks to the idea of individual agency and the rejection of external influences in shaping one’s identity. He suggests that true selfhood is not determined by the expectations or impositions of others but by the deliberate refusal to conform to societal norms or predefined roles. Sartre emphasizes the importance of autonomy and self-determination in the process of becoming who we are meant to be. This quote underscores the existentialist notion that individuals have the power to define themselves through their choices and actions, independent of external constraints or expectations. It serves as a call to embrace personal freedom and responsibility in the pursuit of authenticity and self-fulfillment.
B. B. King
“The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you.”
B. B. King’s quote celebrates the enduring value of learning and knowledge. He highlights the inherent power of education, suggesting that once acquired, learning becomes an integral part of an individual’s identity and cannot be easily removed or diminished by external forces. King’s quote serves as a reminder of the lifelong benefits of intellectual growth and curiosity, emphasizing that the acquisition of knowledge is a personal asset that enriches and empowers individuals throughout their lives. It underscores the idea that learning is a priceless gift that continues to provide value and fulfillment regardless of external circumstances.
Abigail Adams
“Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and diligence.”
Abigail Adams’ quote underscores the active pursuit of knowledge and the necessity of dedication and effort in the learning process. She suggests that learning is not a passive occurrence but rather something that must be actively sought after with enthusiasm and perseverance. By emphasizing the importance of ardor and diligence, Adams highlights the proactive role individuals must play in their own education. This quote serves as a reminder that true learning requires commitment and determination, and that the rewards of knowledge are earned through deliberate pursuit and hard work. It encourages individuals to approach learning with passion and diligence, recognizing that the journey of acquiring knowledge is as important as the destination.
Miguel de Cervantes
“Make it thy business to know thyself, which is the most difficult lesson in the world.”
Miguel de Cervantes’ quote reflects on the profound challenge of self-discovery and introspection. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s own nature, asserting that this task is among the most difficult endeavors one can undertake. Cervantes suggests that gaining self-awareness is not merely a passive pursuit but should be regarded as a primary focus or “business” in life. This quote serves as a timeless reminder of the complexity and depth of human identity, highlighting the inherent difficulty in truly knowing oneself. It encourages individuals to engage in the ongoing process of self-reflection and introspection, recognizing that the journey of self-discovery is both challenging and essential for personal growth and fulfillment.
TheLorax
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”
This quote from “The Lorax” by Dr. Seuss encapsulates the profound impact that individual care and concern can have on the world around us. It emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and activism in effecting positive change. By highlighting the necessity of caring deeply about issues, the quote underscores the power of individual action in making a difference. It serves as a poignant reminder that collective progress and improvement depend on the dedication and compassion of individuals who are willing to advocate for positive change.
Saul Bellow
“Boredom is the conviction that you can’t change…the shriek of unused capacities.”
– Saul Bellow, The Adventures of Augie March
Saul Bellow’s quote from “The Adventures of Augie March” provides a striking perspective on boredom, portraying it not as a lack of external stimulation, but as a symptom of unfulfilled potential and stagnant growth. He suggests that boredom arises from a sense of resignation to one’s circumstances and a belief that change or personal development is impossible. By characterizing it as “the shriek of unused capacities,” Bellow emphasizes the untapped potential within individuals and the dissatisfaction that arises when these abilities go unrecognized or unexplored. This quote serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the importance of embracing change and pursuing personal growth to combat the stagnation of boredom.
Stephen Hawking
“It surprises me how disinterested we are today about things like physics, space, the universe and philosophy of our existence, our purpose, our final destination. It’s a crazy world out there. Be curious.”
Stephen Hawking’s quote urges us to rekindle our curiosity and interest in the profound questions surrounding our existence and the universe. He expresses surprise at the prevailing disinterest in subjects like physics, space, and philosophy, which delve into the fundamental nature of reality and our place within it. By highlighting the vast mysteries and complexities of the world, Hawking encourages us to embrace our innate curiosity and explore the deeper meanings of life. This quote serves as a reminder of the boundless wonders waiting to be discovered and underscores the importance of remaining curious and inquisitive in our pursuit of knowledge and understanding.
Napoleon Bonaparte
“Of all our institutions public education is the most important… We must be able to cast a whole generation in the same mold.”
Napoleon Bonaparte’s quote underscores the significance of public education as a cornerstone of societal progress and unity. He emphasizes the vital role of education in shaping the collective mindset and values of a generation. By advocating for the ability to “cast a whole generation in the same mold,” Napoleon highlights the importance of instilling common knowledge, values, and skills among citizens to promote social cohesion and stability. This quote reflects Napoleon’s belief in the power of education as a means of molding future citizens and ensuring the continuity and strength of the state.
Carroll Quigley
“We no longer have intellectually satisfying relationships in our educational system, in art, or in anything else. Instead, we have slogans and ideologies.”
Carroll Quigley’s quote critiques the modern state of intellectual engagement and discourse, suggesting a decline in the depth and substance of relationships within educational systems, art, and other domains. He laments the prevalence of simplistic slogans and rigid ideologies over nuanced and intellectually satisfying interactions. Quigley implies that genuine exploration and understanding have been overshadowed by superficiality and dogma. This quote serves as a commentary on the erosion of critical thinking and open dialogue in contemporary society, highlighting the need to reinvigorate intellectual engagement and foster deeper, more meaningful relationships in various spheres of life.
Harry J. Hogan
“Disintegration can be explained as the gradual transformation of social “instruments” into “institutions.” That is, changing social arrangements that meet real needs into social institutions that serve their own purposes. These institutions enforce a rigid and idealized version of reality and fight any changes to it. They do not allow the consideration of things outside their prescribed categories.
Nonetheless, the greatness of Western civilization is that it is engages in a constant effort to understand reality. It furthermore holds that the real world is constantly changing. As a result, we believe that our knowledge is always subject to improvement. And so reform is always possible to us.”
– Harry J. Hogan in Carroll Quigley’s “The Evolution of Civilizations”
Harry J. Hogan, as quoted in Carroll Quigley’s “The Evolution of Civilizations,” offers a profound observation on the phenomenon of disintegration within societies. He suggests that disintegration occurs when social arrangements, initially designed to meet practical needs, evolve into rigid institutions that serve their own interests. These institutions, driven by self-preservation, enforce a narrow version of reality and resist change. However, Hogan also highlights the resilience of Western civilization, which is characterized by a commitment to understanding reality and recognizing its constant evolution. He asserts that the acknowledgment of the ever-changing nature of the world allows for continual improvement and reform. This quote serves as a reflection on the tension between institutional rigidity and the capacity for societal adaptation and progress.
Mark Twain
“I have never let my schooling interfere with my education.”
Mark Twain’s quote cleverly juxtaposes the formal process of schooling with the broader concept of education. By stating, “I have never let my schooling interfere with my education,” Twain suggests that while schooling provides structured learning within institutions, true education extends beyond the classroom and encompasses a lifelong journey of discovery and growth. He implies that personal experiences, independent learning, and self-reflection are equally, if not more, valuable in shaping one’s understanding of the world. This quote reflects Twain’s belief in the importance of critical thinking and curiosity, encouraging individuals to seek knowledge beyond the confines of traditional educational systems.