Acquire Quote by Mark Van Doren
“Any piece of knowledge I acquire today has a value at this moment exactly proportional to my skill to deal with it. Tomorrow, when I know more, I recall that piece of knowledge and use it better.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Value of Knowledge, 1955
Knowledge’s worth depends on current ability to apply it; later, as skill grows, the same knowledge becomes more useful.
In simple terms: Knowledge is useful when you can use it.
Key Takeaway
Seek skills to unlock knowledge.
Themes
learning
skill
value
Mood
thoughtful
encouraging
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- education
- career development
- self‑improvement
Key Concepts
growth mindset
practical application
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you improve your ability to apply what you learn?
- What knowledge do you have that you’re not yet using?
A Different Perspective
Without skill, knowledge can be wasted.
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
