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Adam Quote by Mark Twain

“Presently a serpent sought them out privately, and came to them walking upright, which was the way of serpents in those days. The serpent said the forbidden fruit would store their vacant minds with knowledge. So they ate it, which was quite natural, for man is so made that he eagerly wants to…” quote by Mark Twain
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““Presently a serpent sought them out privately, and came to them walking upright, which was the way of serpents in those days. The serpent said the forbidden fruit would store their vacant minds with knowledge. So they ate it, which was quite natural, for man is so made that he eagerly wants to know; whereas the priest, like God, whose imitator and representative he is, has made it his business from the beginning to keep him from knowing any useful thing.””

Mark Twain

About This Quote

Source Short story: "The Mysterious Stranger" by Mark Twain, 1916

The desire for forbidden knowledge drives humans, while authority figures often suppress it.

In simple terms: People crave hidden knowledge; leaders may block it.

Key Takeaway

Question and seek truth, but beware manipulation.

Themes

knowledge authority curiosity

Mood

skeptical inquisitive

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • education reform
  • media literacy
  • scientific inquiry
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology mythology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truths are you tempted to uncover?
  • Who benefits from keeping knowledge hidden?
A Different Perspective

Blind pursuit can lead to danger or misinformation.

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