Skip to content

Know Quote by Henry David Thoreau

“To know that we know what we know, and that we do not know what we do not know, that is true knowledge.” quote by Henry David Thoreau
Download Open image
“To know that we know what we know, and that we do not know what we do not know, that is true knowledge.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

Source Essay: "Self‑Reliance", Henry David Thoreau, 1841

True knowledge means recognizing both what we know and what we do not know.

In simple terms: Know what you know and admit what you don’t.

Key Takeaway

Embrace humility and curiosity.

Themes

philosophy epistemology humility

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • scientific research
  • personal development
  • decision making

Key Concepts

metacognition self‑awareness uncertainty

Questions to Reflect On

  • What do you assume you know that might be false?
  • How can you test the limits of your knowledge?
A Different Perspective

People often overestimate their understanding, leading to overconfidence.

4.3 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Henry David Thoreau

Explore all 3,376 Henry David Thoreau quotes

More Know quotes

Browse all 22,300 Know quotes