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Constitution Quote by Joseph Glanvill

“We cannot conceive how the Foetus is form'd in the Womb, nor as much as how a Plant springs from the Earth we tread on ... And if we are ignorant of the most obvious things about us, and the most considerable within our selves, 'tis then no wonder that we know not the constitution and powers of…” quote by Joseph Glanvill
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“We cannot conceive how the Foetus is form'd in the Womb, nor as much as how a Plant springs from the Earth we tread on ... And if we are ignorant of the most obvious things about us, and the most considerable within our selves, 'tis then no wonder that we know not the constitution and powers of the creatures, to whom we are such strangers.”

Joseph Glanvill

About This Quote

Source Treatise: The Vanity of Dogmas by Joseph Glanvill, 1661

Human ignorance of basic natural truths mirrors our lack of self‑knowledge, leading to misunderstanding of the world and ourselves.

In simple terms: We often don’t know simple things about nature or ourselves.

Key Takeaway

Seek basic knowledge before complex theories.

Themes

ignorance selfknowledge nature

Mood

curious thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • personal growth
  • scientific inquiry
  • spiritual reflection

Key Concepts

epistemology humility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What simple truths are you overlooking?
  • How can you improve self‑awareness?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on ignorance can cause paralysis.

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