In his commerce with men I mean him to include- and that…
“In his commerce with men I mean him to include- and that principally- those who live only in the memory of books. By means of history he will frequent those great souls of former years. If you want it to be so, history can be a waste of time; it can also be, if you want it to be so, a study bearing fruit beyond price.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Suggests history can be either wasteful or valuable, depending on how it’s used.
In simple terms: History can be useless or useful.
Key Takeaway
Use history purposefully to gain insight.
Themes
knowledge
history
learning
perspective
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- academic research
- policy making
- personal growth
- cultural education
Key Concepts
historical analysis
critical thinking
value assessment
Questions to Reflect On
- What historical lessons apply to your life?
- When does studying history become a waste?
A Different Perspective
Requires discernment of relevance.