Attitude Quote by Soren Kierkegaard
“Knowledge is an attitude, a passion, actually an illicit attitude. For the compulsion to know is like dipsomania, erotomania, and homicidal mania, in producing a character that is out of balance. It is not at all that the scientist goes after the truth.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophy: The Concept of Anxiety, 1844
The drive to know can become obsessive, turning curiosity into a destabilizing compulsion rather than a balanced pursuit of truth.
In simple terms: Obsessive curiosity can unbalance a person.
Key Takeaway
Balance curiosity with reflection.
Themes
knowledge
obsession
balance
science
Mood
introspective
cautionary
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- research
- personal development
- academic study
- creative work
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you keep your quest for knowledge healthy?
- When does curiosity become harmful?
A Different Perspective
Unchecked curiosity may lead to burnout or ethical lapses.
