Classic Quote by Bernard of Chartres
“We are like dwarfs on the shoulders of giants, so that we can see more than they.”
About This Quote
We stand on the achievements of those before us, gaining greater insight.
In simple terms: Build on past knowledge to see further.
Key Takeaway
Learn from predecessors to expand understanding.
Themes
knowledge
heritage
progress
Mood
respectful
inspirational
Type
historical
educational
When to use this quote
- education
- scientific research
- creative work
Key Concepts
history
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- What giants have you stood on?
- How can we honor past contributions?
A Different Perspective
May underplay individual contribution.
![“We are like dwarfs [the moderns] sitting on the shoulders of giants [the ancients]. Our glance can thus take in more things and reach farther than theirs. It is not because our sight is sharper nor our height greater than theirs; it is that we are carried and elevated by the high stature of the…” quote by Bernard of Chartres](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/8e3/bernard-of-chartres-86279_dwarfs_we-are-like-dwarfs-the-moderns-sitting-o_2905624.jpg)
![“We [the Moderns] are like dwarves perched on the shoulders of giants [the Ancients], and thus we are able to see more and farther than the latter.” quote by Bernard of Chartres](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/182/bernard-of-chartres-86279_able_we-the-moderns-are-like-dwarves-perched_1740550.jpg)
