Skip to content

Age Quote by Henry David Thoreau

“Doubtless, we are as slow to conceive of Paradise as of Heaven, of a perfect natural as of a perfect spiritual world. We see how past ages have loitered and erred. "Is perhaps our generation free from irrationality and error? Have we perhaps reached now the summit of human wisdom, and need no more…” quote by Henry David Thoreau
Download Open image
“Doubtless, we are as slow to conceive of Paradise as of Heaven, of a perfect natural as of a perfect spiritual world. We see how past ages have loitered and erred. "Is perhaps our generation free from irrationality and error? Have we perhaps reached now the summit of human wisdom, and need no more to look out for mental or physical improvement?" Undoubtedly, we are never so visionary as to be prepared for what the next hour may bring forth.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

Source Essay: "Civil Disobedience" (or similar) by Henry David Thoreau, 1849

Human wisdom is limited; we often assume we have reached a pinnacle, yet future challenges exceed current vision.

In simple terms: We think we know everything, but we don’t.

Key Takeaway

Stay humble and open to new learning.

Themes

humility knowledge progress uncertainty

Mood

thoughtful cautious

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • policy making
  • personal growth
  • scientific research

Key Concepts

epistemology historical perspective future studies

Questions to Reflect On

  • What assumptions might be holding you back?
  • How can you prepare for unforeseen challenges?
A Different Perspective

Overconfidence can blind us to necessary change.

2.9 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Henry David Thoreau

Explore all 3,376 Henry David Thoreau quotes

More Age quotes

Browse all 18,949 Age quotes