Admiration Quote by John Locke
“The Commonwealth of Learning is not at this time without Master-Builders, whose mighty Designs, in advancing the Sciences, will leave lasting Monuments to the Admiration of Posterity; But every one must not hope to be a Boyle, or a Sydenham; and in an Age that produces such Masters, as the Great-Huygenius, and the incomparable Mr. Newton, with some other of that Strain; 'tis Ambition enough to be employed as an Under-Labourer in clearing Ground a little, and removing some of the Rubbish, that lies in the way to Knowledge.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: An Essay Concerning Human Understanding, 1690, Book II, Chapter XI
Knowledge progresses through modest contributions; not everyone can be a great scientist, but all can clear obstacles for others.
In simple terms: Small work aids big discoveries.
Key Takeaway
Value incremental effort in advancing knowledge.
Themes
knowledge
humility
collaboration
Mood
inspirational
reflective
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- education
- research
- mentorship
- community building
Key Concepts
Philosophy of science
progressivism
Questions to Reflect On
- What small tasks can you do to support learning?
- How does humility foster scientific progress?
A Different Perspective
May undervalue the need for visionary breakthroughs.
![“[M]an is not permitted without censure to follow his own thoughts in the search of truth, when they lead him ever so little out of the common road.” quote by John Locke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9bd/john-locke-814_censorship_m-an-is-not-permitted-without-censure-to_60175.jpg)
