Culture Quote by Will Durant
“Sixty years ago I knew everything; now I know nothing; education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance. We teach more by what we are than by what we teach.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Story of Civilization, Volume 1, 1935
Knowledge expands as we realize our ignorance; teaching is most effective when rooted in personal experience and humility
In simple terms: Learning reveals how much we don’t know
Key Takeaway
Teach through lived experience and humility
Themes
education
humility
self awareness
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
educational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- classroom teaching
- mentor relationships
- self‑directed study
- public speaking
Key Concepts
epistemology
pedagogy
personal growth
Questions to Reflect On
- How can teachers balance humility with authority?
- What methods reveal personal ignorance constructively?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on humility may hinder confidence in expertise
