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The mere absorption of facts and truths is so exclusively…

“The mere absorption of facts and truths is so exclusively an individual affair that it tends very naturally to pass into selfishness. There is no obvious social motive for the acquirement of mere learning, there is no clear social gain in success thereat.” quote by John Dewey
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“The mere absorption of facts and truths is so exclusively an individual affair that it tends very naturally to pass into selfishness. There is no obvious social motive for the acquirement of mere learning, there is no clear social gain in success thereat.”

John Dewey

About This Quote

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

Learning in isolation fosters selfishness; education should serve social purposes and communal benefit.

In simple terms: Learning alone can become selfish.

Key Takeaway

Make learning socially purposeful.

Themes

education social responsibility community

Mood

thoughtful communal

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • classroom collaboration
  • public policy
  • community projects

Key Concepts

collective knowledge civic engagement

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance personal growth with social impact?
  • What communal learning opportunities exist?
A Different Perspective

Individual focus may still be valuable.

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