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It's where we're nearest to our humanness. Useless…

“It's where we're nearest to our humanness. Useless knowledge for its own sake. Useful knowledge is good, too, but it's for the faint-hearted, an elaboration of the real thing, which is only to shine some light, it doesn't matter where on what, it's the light itself, against the darkness, it's…” quote by Tom Stoppard
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“It's where we're nearest to our humanness. Useless knowledge for its own sake. Useful knowledge is good, too, but it's for the faint-hearted, an elaboration of the real thing, which is only to shine some light, it doesn't matter where on what, it's the light itself, against the darkness, it's what's left of God's purpose when you take away God.”

Tom Stoppard

About This Quote

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

Knowledge for its own sake is empty; useful knowledge should illuminate truth, not just add detail.

In simple terms: Useful knowledge enlightens truth.

Key Takeaway

Seek knowledge that clarifies purpose.

Themes

knowledge purpose truth philosophy

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • education
  • research
  • creative work

Key Concepts

meaning illumination existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What knowledge truly serves your life?
  • How do you differentiate useful from trivial knowledge?
A Different Perspective

Knowledge can be misused or become vanity.

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