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Desire Quote by John Donne

“And if there be any addition to knowledge, it is rather a new knowledge than a greater knowledge; rather a singularity in a desire of proposing something that was not knownat all beforethananimproving, anadvancing, a multiplying of former inceptions; and by that means, no knowledge comes to be…” quote by John Donne
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“And if there be any addition to knowledge, it is rather a new knowledge than a greater knowledge; rather a singularity in a desire of proposing something that was not knownat all beforethananimproving, anadvancing, a multiplying of former inceptions; and by that means, no knowledge comes to be perfect.”

John Donne

About This Quote

Source Poem: "The Knowledge of the World" by John Donne, early 17th century

New knowledge expands understanding more than deepening existing facts.

In simple terms: New ideas are more valuable than expanding old ones.

Key Takeaway

Seek novel insights.

Themes

knowledge innovation progress

Mood

curious inquisitive

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • research
  • creative brainstorming
  • learning new skills

Key Concepts

epistemology creativity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What new idea excites you?
  • How will you test its validity?
A Different Perspective

New ideas can be untested and risky.

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