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Depths Quote by John Locke

“It is of great use to the sailor to know the length of his line, though he cannot with it fathom all the depths of the ocean.” quote by John Locke
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“It is of great use to the sailor to know the length of his line, though he cannot with it fathom all the depths of the ocean.”

John Locke

About This Quote

Source Book: Two Treatises of Government, 1689

Highlights the practical value of knowing one's limits while acknowledging the impossibility of fully comprehending the unknown.

In simple terms: Know your limits, but accept mystery.

Key Takeaway

Balance knowledge with humility.

Themes

knowledge humility exploration

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • navigation
  • scientific research
  • personal decision-making

Key Concepts

epistemology human limitation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you act when faced with unknown depths?
  • When is it wise to accept uncertainty?
A Different Perspective

Complete understanding is unattainable; uncertainty remains.

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