Doe Quote by Pliny the Elder
“Indeed, what is there that does not appear marvelous when it comes to our knowledge for the first time? How many things, too, are looked up on as quite impossible until they have been actually effected?”
About This Quote
Source Book: Natural History by Pliny the Elder, 77 AD
First encounters with new knowledge seem miraculous, and many things once deemed impossible become reality after they are achieved.
In simple terms: New knowledge feels amazing; impossible becomes possible after achievement.
Key Takeaway
Embrace curiosity and keep exploring.
Themes
curiosity
discovery
progress
Mood
wonder
inspired
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- research
- innovation
- education
- problem solving
Key Concepts
science
philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- What recent breakthrough changed your view of what is possible?
- How can we responsibly manage new knowledge?
A Different Perspective
Not all discoveries are beneficial; some may cause harm.
![“[P]rescientific people... could never guess the nature of physical reality beyond the tiny sphere attainable by unaided common sense. Nothing else ever worked, no exercise from myth, revelation, art, trance, or any other conceivable means; and notwithstanding the emotional satisfaction it gives…” quote by E. O. Wilson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0d0/e-o-wilson-1348_art_p-rescientific-people-could-never-guess_717283.jpg)
