We can’t have full knowledge all at once. We must start by believing; then afterwards we may be led on to master the evidence for ourselves.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote speaks to the nature of acquiring knowledge and the importance of an open and inquisitive mindset. It suggests that it is not always possible to have complete understanding from the start, and that the process of gaining knowledge often begins with belief and trust, allowing us to explore and uncover evidence along the way.
The quote acknowledges that we cannot instantly possess all the knowledge and evidence about a particular subject or concept. Instead, it encourages us to start by believing in something, be it an idea, theory, or principle. Belief acts as a foundation upon which we can build our understanding and curiosity.
By embracing belief, we open ourselves to exploration and further investigation. It implies that through active engagement and inquiry, we have the opportunity to seek and gather evidence, deepening our knowledge and refining our understanding. This process allows us to test and evaluate our initial beliefs, gradually developing a more comprehensive and well-informed perspective.
The quote highlights the importance of a balanced approach to acquiring knowledge—one that combines open-mindedness with critical thinking. It encourages us to maintain a willingness to believe and explore while also seeking and evaluating evidence for ourselves. This approach fosters intellectual growth, enabling us to expand our understanding and refine our beliefs based on reliable evidence and reasoned analysis.
In summary, this quote underscores the dynamic process of acquiring knowledge. It emphasizes the role of belief as a starting point, enabling us to explore and investigate further. It encourages a balanced approach that combines belief with the pursuit of evidence, allowing us to continually refine our understanding and deepen our knowledge over time.
Who said the quote?
The quote "We can't have full knowledge all at once. We must start by believing; then afterwards we may be led on to master the evidence for ourselves." was said by Thomas Aquinas (Bio / Quotes). Thomas Aquinas was a medieval Italian philosopher and theologian who is best known for his work "Summa Theologica.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
