Knows Quote by Michel de Montaigne
“There is a plague on Man, the opinion that he knows something.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Essais, Book III, 1580
He critiques humanity’s overconfidence in claiming knowledge, suggesting it’s a flaw.
In simple terms: People often think they know more than they do.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions and stay humble.
Themes
humility
knowledge
skepticism
Mood
skeptical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- daily decision making
- leadership
- teaching
Key Concepts
epistemology
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you assume you know something without evidence?
- When is confidence useful?
A Different Perspective
Overconfidence can motivate action despite its risks.
