Age Quote by Bertrand Russell
“At the age of eleven, I began Euclid, with my brother as my tutor. ... I had not imagined that there was anything so delicious in the world. After I had learned the fifth proposition, my brother told me that it was generally considered difficult, but I had found no difficulty whatsoever. This was the first time it had dawned on me that I might have some intelligence.”
About This Quote
Source Autobiography: The Autobiography of Bertrand Russell, 1967
Early mastery of geometry revealed personal intelligence, showing that confidence grows from overcoming perceived difficulty.
In simple terms: Understanding geometry boosted self‑belief.
Key Takeaway
Recognize early successes to build confidence.
Themes
education
self‑esteem
intelligence
growth
Mood
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
biographical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- school learning
- self‑study
- mentor guidance
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
Cognitive development
self‑efficacy
Questions to Reflect On
- How did early success shape later learning?
- What role do mentors play in confidence?
A Different Perspective
Early confidence may be fragile without continued challenge.
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![“[T]he 47th proposition in Euclid might now be voted down with as much ease as any proposition in politics; and therefore if Lord Hawkesbury hates the abstract truths of science as much as he hates concrete truth in human affairs, now is his time for getting rid of the multiplication table, and…” quote by Sydney Smith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/709/sydney-smith-6523_abstract_t-he-47th-proposition-in-euclid-might-no_463551.jpg)
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
