Skip to content

Boys Quote by John Lubbock

“The important thing is not so much that every child should be taught, as that every child should have the opportunity of teaching itself. What does it matter if the pupil know a little more or a little less? A boy who leaves school knowing much, but hating his lessons, will soon have forgotten all…” quote by John Lubbock
Download Open image
“The important thing is not so much that every child should be taught, as that every child should have the opportunity of teaching itself. What does it matter if the pupil know a little more or a little less? A boy who leaves school knowing much, but hating his lessons, will soon have forgotten all he ever learned; while another who had acquired a thirst for knowledge, even if he had learned little, would soon teach himself more than the first ever knew.”

John Lubbock

About This Quote

Source Speech: Educational Philosophy, 19th Century Publication

Education should prioritize fostering a child's innate curiosity and self‑directed learning over rigid instruction, as intrinsic motivation leads to lifelong learning.

In simple terms: Encourage children to learn on their own.

Key Takeaway

Promote curiosity‑driven education.

Themes

education self‑directed learning motivation lifelong learning

Mood

inspirational thoughtful

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • Classroom teaching
  • home schooling
  • mentoring programs
  • self‑study curricula

Key Concepts

Constructivism intrinsic motivation pedagogical autonomy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What methods spark a child's love for learning?
  • How balance guidance with independence?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on self‑learning may neglect foundational knowledge.

2.9 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by John Lubbock

Explore all 84 John Lubbock quotes

More Boys quotes

Browse all 7,168 Boys quotes