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Ignorance Quote by Wendell Berry

“Praise ignorance, for what man has not encountered he has not destroyed.” quote by Wendell Berry
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“Praise ignorance, for what man has not encountered he has not destroyed.”

Wendell Berry

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Unsettling of America, Wendell Berry, 1977

Ignorance can protect the unknown from harm, urging humility toward unfamiliar things.

In simple terms: Not knowing can prevent destruction.

Key Takeaway

Respect the unknown.

Themes

humility environment ethics

Mood

thoughtful cautious

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • personal interactions
  • conservation
  • education

Key Concepts

ecology human impact

Questions to Reflect On

  • How might ignorance cause unintended harm?
  • When should we seek knowledge?
A Different Perspective

Assumes all unknowns are harmless, which may not be true.

3.9 out of 5 (3 ratings)

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