Harvest time Quote by Carl Sagan
![“[Thales] was reproached for his poverty, which was supposed to show that philosophy is of no use. According to the story, he knew by his skill [in interpreting the heavens] while it was yet winter that there would be a great harvest of olives in the coming year; so, having a little money, he gave…” quote by Carl Sagan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/812/carl-sagan-160_harvest-time_thales-was-reproached-for-his-poverty-wh_1947574.jpg)
““[Thales] was reproached for his poverty, which was supposed to show that philosophy is of no use. According to the story, he knew by his skill [in interpreting the heavens] while it was yet winter that there would be a great harvest of olives in the coming year; so, having a little money, he gave deposits for the use of all the olive-presses in Chios and Miletus, which he hired at a low price because no one bid against him. When the harvest time came, and many were wanted all at once, he let them out at any rate which he pleased and made a quantity of money. Thus he showed the world philosophers can easily be rich if they like, but that their ambition is of another sort.””
About This Quote
Source Historical anecdote: Thales of Miletus, 6th century BC, ancient Greek philosopher
Thales demonstrates that practical skill and strategic investment can turn philosophical insight into wealth, challenging the notion that philosophy is useless.
In simple terms: Philosophers can be wealthy by applying knowledge wisely.
Key Takeaway
Use knowledge to create value.
Themes
philosophy
wealth
practicality
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
historical
practical
When to use this quote
- investment
- agricultural planning
- resource management
- career strategy
Key Concepts
economics
ancient Greek history
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one balance material success with intellectual integrity?
- What modern fields reflect this blend of theory and profit?
A Different Perspective
Wealth may distract from philosophical pursuits.
![“[ When a religious couple wrote to Sagan about fulfilled prophecies, he wrote back in May 1996 :] If ‘fulfilled prophecy’ is your criterion, why do you not believe in materialistic science, which has an unparalleled record of fulfilled prophecy? Consider, for example, eclipses.” quote by Carl Sagan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/875/carl-sagan-160_belief_when-a-religious-couple-wrote-to-sagan-a_25095.jpg)
