Century Quote by George Eliot
“It is a common sentence that Knowledge is power; but who hath duly considered or set forth the power of Ignorance? Knowledge slowly builds up what Ignorance in an hour pulls down. Knowledge, through patient and frugal centuries, enlarges discovery and makes record of it; Ignorance, wanting its day's dinner, lights a fire with the record, and gives a flavour to its one roast with the burnt souls of many generations.”
About This Quote
The quote contrasts the constructive, long‑term growth of knowledge with the rapid, destructive force of ignorance, warning that ignorance can quickly undo accumulated wisdom.
In simple terms: Knowledge builds slowly; ignorance destroys fast.
Key Takeaway
Guard against ignorance’s swift damage.
Themes
knowledge
ignorance
growth
danger
history
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
warning
When to use this quote
- education
- policy making
- media literacy
- leadership decisions
Key Concepts
cumulative learning
destructive forces
intergenerational impact
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies protect knowledge from rapid erosion?
- What safeguards prevent ignorance from dominating discourse?
A Different Perspective
Ignorance can spread faster than knowledge can be built.
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