--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: What we learn for the sake of knowing, we…" description: "\"What we learn for the sake of knowing, we hold; what we learn for the sake of accomplishing some ulterior end, we forget as soon as that end has been g..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f74/anna-brackett-34640_action_what-we-learn-for-the-sake-of-knowing-we_1635810.png" --- # What we learn for the sake of knowing, we hold; what we… ![“What we learn for the sake of knowing, we hold; what we learn for the sake of accomplishing some ulterior end, we forget as soon as that end has been gained. This, too, is automatic action in the constitution of the mind itself, and it is fortunate and merciful that it is so, for otherwise our…” quote by Anna Brackett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f74/anna-brackett-34640_action_what-we-learn-for-the-sake-of-knowing-we_1635810.png) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f74/anna-brackett-34640_action_what-we-learn-for-the-sake-of-knowing-we_1635810.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f74/anna-brackett-34640_action_what-we-learn-for-the-sake-of-knowing-we_1635810.png) > “What we learn for the sake of knowing, we hold; what we learn for the sake of accomplishing some ulterior end, we forget as soon as that end has been gained. This, too, is automatic action in the constitution of the mind itself, and it is fortunate and merciful that it is so, for otherwise our minds would be soon only rubbish-rooms.” [Anna Brackett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/anna-brackett/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Knowledge pursued for its own sake is retained; knowledge pursued for a goal is quickly forgotten once the goal is met, revealing a built‑in mental shortcut. **In simple terms:** Learning for curiosity sticks; learning for a purpose fades. Key Takeaway Value curiosity over utility. Themes learning memory motivation psychology Mood reflective thoughtful Type philosophical observational When to use this quote - education - career planning - personal development - goal setting Key Concepts intrinsic vs extrinsic motivation cognitive economy Questions to Reflect On - How does purpose affect retention? - Can you balance curiosity with utility? 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