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The art of writing history is the art of emphasizing the…

“The art of writing history is the art of emphasizing the significant facts at the expense of the insignificant. And it is the same in every field of knowledge. Knowledge is power only if a man knows what facts not to bother about.” quote by Robert Wilson Lynd
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“The art of writing history is the art of emphasizing the significant facts at the expense of the insignificant. And it is the same in every field of knowledge. Knowledge is power only if a man knows what facts not to bother about.”

Robert Wilson Lynd

About This Quote

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

History emphasizes notable facts, ignoring trivial ones; true knowledge knows what to disregard.

In simple terms: History picks important facts, ignores the rest.

Key Takeaway

Focus on what matters.

Themes

history knowledge selectivity

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • research
  • teaching
  • policy analysis

Key Concepts

critical thinking information hierarchy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What facts do you deem insignificant?
  • How do you decide what to ignore?
A Different Perspective

Neglecting details can lead to bias.

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