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Curiosity in children ... is but an appetite after…

“Curiosity in children ... is but an appetite after knowledge and therefore ought to be encouraged in them, not only as a good sign, but as the great instrument nature has provided to remove that ignorance they were born with and which, without this busy inquisitiveness, will make them dull and…” quote by John Locke
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“Curiosity in children ... is but an appetite after knowledge and therefore ought to be encouraged in them, not only as a good sign, but as the great instrument nature has provided to remove that ignorance they were born with and which, without this busy inquisitiveness, will make them dull and useless creatures.”

John Locke

About This Quote

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

Children's curiosity drives knowledge acquisition; encouraging it prevents ignorance and stagnation.

In simple terms: Encourage curiosity to avoid ignorance.

Key Takeaway

Foster inquisitiveness in learning.

Themes

education curiosity knowledge development growth

Mood

inspired optimistic

Type

educational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • schools
  • parenting
  • self‑directed study
  • creative projects

Key Concepts

inquisitiveness learning development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can curiosity be guided product?
  • What environments best nurture inquisitiveness?
A Different Perspective

Too much curiosity without guidance can lead to misinformation.

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