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the “compendium of learning” set in motion by the Ming…

“the “compendium of learning” set in motion by the Ming Emperor Yongle (1360–1424), which drew on the talents of more than two thousand scholars and filled more than eleven thousand volumes—and remained the largest encyclopedia in the world until Wikipedia surpassed it in 2007.” quote by John Micklethwait
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““the “compendium of learning” set in motion by the Ming Emperor Yongle (1360–1424), which drew on the talents of more than two thousand scholars and filled more than eleven thousand volumes—and remained the largest encyclopedia in the world until Wikipedia surpassed it in 2007.””

John Micklethwait

About This Quote

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

The Ming encyclopedia was the world’s largest knowledge base until Wikipedia overtook it.

In simple terms: Great works can be surpassed.

Key Takeaway

Embrace new knowledge.

Themes

knowledge history technology

Mood

reflective forward-looking

Type

historical informative

When to use this quote

  • library science
  • online collaboration
  • educational platforms
  • research methods

Key Concepts

information accumulation digital transformation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What modern tools replace old ones?
  • How do we preserve digital knowledge?
A Different Perspective

Transition can erase past achievements.

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