---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Those who think they 'know' from the…"
description: "\"Those who think they 'know' from the beginning will never in fact come to know anything.\" — Thomas Merton"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/436/thomas-merton-231_birth_those-who-think-they-know-from-the-begin_250851.jpg"
---

#  Those who think they 'know' from the beginning will never…

![“Those who think they 'know' from the beginning will never in fact come to know anything.” quote by Thomas Merton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/436/thomas-merton-231_birth_those-who-think-they-know-from-the-begin_250851.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/436/thomas-merton-231_birth_those-who-think-they-know-from-the-begin_250851.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/436/thomas-merton-231_birth_those-who-think-they-know-from-the-begin_250851.jpg)

> “Those who think they 'know' from the beginning will never in fact come to know anything.”

[Thomas Merton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/thomas-merton/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Assuming knowledge from the start prevents true learning; humility is needed to discover new understanding.

**In simple terms:** Thinking you already know blocks real learning.

Key Takeaway

Stay humble and open to new insights.

Themes

learning humility knowledge growth mindset

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

- education
- research
- personal development
- spiritual practice

Key Concepts

epistemology self-awareness open-mindedness

Questions to Reflect On

- What assumptions limit your learning?
- How can you cultivate curiosity?

A Different Perspective

Overconfidence can hinder progress.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★   No ratings yet

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