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Authority Quote by Thomas Huxley

“I have always been, am, and propose to remain a mere scholar. All that I have ever proposed to myself is to say, this and this I have learned; thus and thus have I learned it; go thou and learn better; but do not thrust on my shoulders the responsibility for your own laziness if you elect to take…” quote by Thomas Huxley
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“I have always been, am, and propose to remain a mere scholar. All that I have ever proposed to myself is to say, this and this I have learned; thus and thus have I learned it; go thou and learn better; but do not thrust on my shoulders the responsibility for your own laziness if you elect to take, on my authority, conclusions the value of which you ought to have tested for yourself.”

Thomas Huxley

About This Quote

Source Essay: On the Method of Science, 1860

Advocates personal responsibility for learning and warns against relying on others' authority without verification.

In simple terms: Learn yourself, don’t blame others for laziness.

Key Takeaway

Take charge of your own education.

Themes

education personal responsibility critical thinking

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • self‑study
  • peer teaching
  • research projects

Key Concepts

autonomy self‑directed learning intellectual honesty

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify knowledge before accepting it?
  • What habits ensure independent learning?
A Different Perspective

May ignore valuable guidance if overly skeptical.

2.8 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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