Brother Quote by Arthur Hugh Clough
“Old things need not be therefore true, O brother men, nor yet the new; Ah! still awhile the old thought retain, And yet consider it again!”
About This Quote
The quote cautions against assuming that established ideas are always correct nor that novel concepts are automatically superior, urging continual re‑examination of both.
In simple terms: Question both tradition and novelty.
Key Takeaway
Re‑evaluate ideas constantly.
Themes
critical thinking
epistemology
skepticism
open‑mindedness
intellectual humility
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
cautious
Type
philosophical
reflective
advice
When to use this quote
- academic research
- policy making
- personal belief systems
- technological adoption
- cultural debates
Key Concepts
truth
change
tradition
innovation
Practical Applications
- philosophical essays
- strategic planning
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria determine when an old idea should be discarded?
- How can we balance respect for tradition with openness to new ideas?
