Skip to content

Acquire Quote by Karl Popper

“Instead of encouraging the student to devote himself to his studies for the sake of studying, instead of encouraging in him a real love for his subject and for inquiry, he is encouraged to study for the sake of his personal career; he is led to acquire only such knowledge as is serviceable in…” quote by Karl Popper
Download Open image
“Instead of encouraging the student to devote himself to his studies for the sake of studying, instead of encouraging in him a real love for his subject and for inquiry, he is encouraged to study for the sake of his personal career; he is led to acquire only such knowledge as is serviceable in getting him over the hurdles which he must clear for the sake of his advancement.”

Karl Popper

About This Quote

Source Book: The Logic of Scientific Discovery, 1959

Education focused on career advancement limits curiosity and deeper understanding, reducing learning to instrumental goals.

In simple terms: Learning for jobs narrows true inquiry.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate genuine curiosity.

Themes

education motivation career inquiry

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • school curricula
  • career counseling
  • personal development
  • policy design

Key Concepts

instrumentalism intrinsic motivation knowledge for its own sake

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does career focus affect deep understanding?
  • What fosters love for a subject?
A Different Perspective

May neglect critical thinking and lifelong learning.

4.7 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Karl Popper

Explore all 181 Karl Popper quotes

More Acquire quotes

Browse all 1,020 Acquire quotes