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In a sense, knowledge shrinks as wisdom grows, for details…

“In a sense, knowledge shrinks as wisdom grows, for details are swallowed up in principles. The details for knowledge which are important, will be picked up ad hoc in each avocation of life, but the habit of the active utilization of well-understood principles is the final possession of WISDOM.” quote by Alfred North Whitehead
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“In a sense, knowledge shrinks as wisdom grows, for details are swallowed up in principles. The details for knowledge which are important, will be picked up ad hoc in each avocation of life, but the habit of the active utilization of well-understood principles is the final possession of WISDOM.”

Alfred North Whitehead

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

As wisdom deepens, broad principles replace the need for isolated facts, allowing selective recall of essential details.

In simple terms: Wisdom replaces detail with principle.

Key Takeaway

Apply core principles, retrieve details as needed.

Themes

wisdom learning principles

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • teaching
  • problem solving
  • strategic planning
  • personal development

Key Concepts

process philosophy epistemology cognitive economy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance principle with necessary nuance?
  • When might detail outweigh principle?
A Different Perspective

Principles may oversimplify complex realities.

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