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Ignorance Quote by Samuel Johnson

“Mankind have a great aversion to intellectual labor; but even supposing knowledge to be easily attainable, more people would be content to be ignorant than would take even a little trouble to acquire it.” quote by Samuel Johnson
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“Mankind have a great aversion to intellectual labor; but even supposing knowledge to be easily attainable, more people would be content to be ignorant than would take even a little trouble to acquire it.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

People often avoid learning even when knowledge is accessible, preferring ignorance over effort.

In simple terms: Many choose ignorance over effort.

Key Takeaway

Encourage curiosity.

Themes

ignorance intellectual labor effort knowledge

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

educational reflective

When to use this quote

  • schools
  • public libraries
  • online courses
  • knowledge‑sharing platforms

Key Concepts

education behavioral economics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we resist learning?
  • What incentives could promote intellectual effort?
A Different Perspective

Access does not ensure motivation.

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