Nature Quote by E. Nesbit
““Grown-up people find it very difficult to believe really wonderful things, unless they have what they call proof. But children will believe almost anything, and grown-ups know this. That is why they tell you that the earth is round like an orange, when you can see perfectly well that it is flat and lumpy; and why they say that the earth goes round the sun, when you can see for yourself any day that the sun gets up in the morning and goes to bed at night like a good sun it is, and the earth knows its place, and lies as still as a mouse.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Enchanted Castle by E. Nesbit, 1907
Children accept wonder without proof, while adults demand evidence, leading to contradictory explanations of simple truths.
In simple terms: Kids believe; adults doubt.
Key Takeaway
Balance wonder with inquiry.
Themes
wonder
skepticism
education
Mood
playful
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- parenting
- teaching
- science education
- storytelling
Key Concepts
critical thinking
imagination
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we nurture curiosity?
- When should we demand proof?
A Different Perspective
Adults may limit children's imagination with over‑rationalizing.
