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Books Quote by William Hazlitt

“Learning is the knowledge of that which is not generally known to others, and which we can only derive at second-hand from books or other artificial sources. The knowledge of that which is before us, or about us, which appeals to our experience, passions, and pursuits, to the bosom and businesses…” quote by William Hazlitt
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“Learning is the knowledge of that which is not generally known to others, and which we can only derive at second-hand from books or other artificial sources. The knowledge of that which is before us, or about us, which appeals to our experience, passions, and pursuits, to the bosom and businesses of men, is not learning. Learning is the knowledge of that which none but the learned know.”

William Hazlitt

About This Quote

Source Essay: "On Learning," 1821

Learning is the assimilation of knowledge gained through personal experience, not just second‑hand information from books or others.

In simple terms: Learning comes from lived experience, not just reading.

Key Takeaway

Seek experience, not just theory.

Themes

experience personal growth knowledge acquisition

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • Education
  • career development
  • personal relationships
  • skill mastery

Key Concepts

Epistemology pragmatism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you turn experience into deeper insight?
  • What sources complement experiential learning?
A Different Perspective

Experience alone may not provide comprehensive understanding without reflection.

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