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Atheism Quote by Saint Augustine

“There is another form of temptation, even more fraught with danger. This is the disease of curiosity. It is this which drives us to try and discover the secrets of nature, those secrets which are beyond our understanding, which can avail us nothing and which man should not wish to learn.” quote by Saint Augustine
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“There is another form of temptation, even more fraught with danger. This is the disease of curiosity. It is this which drives us to try and discover the secrets of nature, those secrets which are beyond our understanding, which can avail us nothing and which man should not wish to learn.”

Saint Augustine

About This Quote

Source Treatise: Confessions, Book 8, 400 AD

Curiosity can become a dangerous temptation, leading us to pursue knowledge that may be beyond our capacity to benefit from.

In simple terms: Curiosity can be harmful when it seeks forbidden knowledge.

Key Takeaway

Beware of seeking knowledge that harms you.

Themes

temptation curiosity danger

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

philosophical warning

When to use this quote

  • scientific research
  • ethical dilemmas
  • personal boundaries

Key Concepts

philosophy human nature knowledge limits

Questions to Reflect On

  • What knowledge do you seek that may be harmful?
  • How do you balance curiosity with wisdom?
A Different Perspective

Unrestrained curiosity may cause harm or waste.

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