Skip to content

Ignorance lies at the bottom of all human knowledge, and…

“Ignorance lies at the bottom of all human knowledge, and the deeper we penetrate the nearer we arrive unto it. For what do we truly know, or what can we clearly affirm, of any one of those important things upon which all our reasonings must of necessity be built--time and space, life and death…” quote by Charles Caleb Colton
Download Open image
“Ignorance lies at the bottom of all human knowledge, and the deeper we penetrate the nearer we arrive unto it. For what do we truly know, or what can we clearly affirm, of any one of those important things upon which all our reasonings must of necessity be built--time and space, life and death, matter and mind?”

Charles Caleb Colton

About This Quote

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

Human knowledge is limited; deeper inquiry often reveals more uncertainty about fundamental truths.

In simple terms: Deeper study shows how much we don't know.

Key Takeaway

Accept uncertainty and keep questioning.

Themes

knowledge uncertainty philosophy humility

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • personal learning
  • scientific exploration

Key Concepts

epistemology metaphysics existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What fundamental truths are most elusive to you?
  • How do you balance doubt with confidence?
A Different Perspective

Can lead to paralysis by analysis.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Charles Caleb Colton

Explore all 778 Charles Caleb Colton quotes

More Bottom quotes

Browse all 2,558 Bottom quotes