Skip to content

Acquire Quote by Kingsley Martin

“A disease of the mind, [whose] germ is the idea that one may learn that which is valuable, or in any way acquire virtue, by the process of being shown things.” quote by Kingsley Martin
Download Open image
“A disease of the mind, [whose] germ is the idea that one may learn that which is valuable, or in any way acquire virtue, by the process of being shown things.”

Kingsley Martin

About This Quote

Source Book: Unknown, early 20th century

The mind can be infected by the belief that learning virtue is possible through mere observation, undermining active moral effort.

In simple terms: Virtue requires effort, not just seeing.

Key Takeaway

Seek active moral practice.

Themes

education virtue mindset learning criticism

Mood

critical inquisitive

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • school curricula
  • self‑improvement programs
  • leadership training
  • ethical debates

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance learning with action?
  • What habits foster genuine virtue?
A Different Perspective

Risk of dismissing the value of observation.

3.7 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Kingsley Martin

Explore all 4 Kingsley Martin quotes

More Acquire quotes

Browse all 1,020 Acquire quotes