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.”
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.
Embrace humility and curiosity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- education
- scientific research
- personal development
- decision making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What do you assume you know that might be false?
- How can you test the limits of your knowledge?
People often overestimate their understanding, leading to overconfidence.