Contemporary Quote by Richard J. Foster
“The Prayer of Examine produces within us the priceless grace of self-knowledge. I wish I could adequately explain to you how great a grace this truly is. Unfortunately, contemporary men and women simply do not value self-knowledge in the same way that all preceding generations have. For us technocratic knowledge reigns supreme. Even when we pursue self-knowledge, we all too often reduce it to a hedonistic search for personal peace and prosperity. How poor we are! Even the pagan philosophers were wiser than this generation. They knew that an unexamined life was not worth living.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Celebration of Discipline by Richard J. Foster, 1978
The quote warns that modern society undervalues deep self‑knowledge, reducing it to superficial comfort, unlike past philosophers who saw self‑examination as essential to a meaningful life.
In simple terms: Modern culture neglects true self‑knowledge, treating it as a luxury.
Key Takeaway
Seek deeper self‑understanding beyond comfort.
Themes
philosophy
self‑knowledge
culture
values
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal development
- education
- spiritual practice
- mental health counseling
Key Concepts
existentialism
humanism
self‑reflection
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we honor self‑knowledge as a moral practice?
- What habits protect deep reflection from commodification?
A Different Perspective
Self‑knowledge can be co‑opted for ego or profit, losing its depth.
