Skip to content

That eminence of learning is not to be gained without…

“That eminence of learning is not to be gained without labour, at least equal to that which any other kind of greatness can require, will be allowed by those who wish to elevate the character of a scholar; since they cannot but know that every human acquisition is valuable in proportion to the…” quote by Samuel Johnson
Download Open image
“That eminence of learning is not to be gained without labour, at least equal to that which any other kind of greatness can require, will be allowed by those who wish to elevate the character of a scholar; since they cannot but know that every human acquisition is valuable in proportion to the difficulty of its attainment.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

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

Great learning requires effort proportional to its difficulty; value rises with the struggle to achieve it.

In simple terms: Hard work makes learning valuable.

Key Takeaway

Invest effort proportional to desired mastery.

Themes

learning effort value scholarship achievement

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • Academic study
  • skill mastery
  • career advancement

Key Concepts

Meritocracy intellectual labor educational philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What learning goals are worth the effort?
  • How can you balance effort with realistic expectations?
A Different Perspective

Excessive focus on difficulty may discourage those with limited resources.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Samuel Johnson

Explore all 1,998 Samuel Johnson quotes

More Acquisition quotes

Browse all 395 Acquisition quotes