Skip to content

All things Quote by Michel de Montaigne

“A learned man is not learned in all things; but a sufficient man is sufficient throughout, even to ignorance itself.” quote by Michel de Montaigne
Download Open image
“A learned man is not learned in all things; but a sufficient man is sufficient throughout, even to ignorance itself.”

Michel de Montaigne

About This Quote

Source Essay: "Essais", 1580

A truly learned person knows everything; a sufficient person is content even with ignorance.

In simple terms: Being sufficient means accepting ignorance.

Key Takeaway

Value contentment over exhaustive knowledge.

Themes

knowledge contentment humility

Mood

reflective serene

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • self‑improvement
  • leadership
  • decision making

Key Concepts

philosophy self‑acceptance

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it enough to know?
  • How does humility aid growth?
A Different Perspective

May discourage pursuit of deeper learning.

2.4 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Michel de Montaigne

Explore all 1,132 Michel de Montaigne quotes

More All things quotes

Browse all 2,486 All things quotes