Will Durant: 'Sixty years ago I knew everything now I know nothing education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance.'

Sixty years ago I knew everything now I know nothing education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance.

In Will Durant's striking quote, "Sixty years ago I knew everything, now I know nothing. Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance," lies a profound understanding of the nature of learning and knowledge accumulation. Reflecting on the passage of time, Durant acknowledges the inevitable humbling realization that the more one learns, the more one becomes aware of the vast expanse of unknowns that lie ahead. In this blog article, we will delve into the meaning and importance of this quote, exploring the concept of intellectual growth and contrasting it with an unexpected philosophical concept to captivate readers' interest.At first glance, Durant's quote may seem simple, yet it resonates deeply with anyone who has embarked on an educational journey. It implies that knowledge is not a static entity that one possesses but rather a progressive and ongoing process of self-discovery. Sixty years ago, Durant felt confident in his understanding of the world, probably believing that he had unraveled its mysteries. However, as time went by and he continued his pursuit of knowledge, he realized that the more he learned, the more he recognized his own limitations and ignorance.This recognition of our own ignorance is indeed an essential aspect of education. It prompts us to question our preconceived notions and opens the doors to a world of new perspectives and possibilities. Rather than shying away from this realization, Durant embraces it as an integral part of personal growth. He acknowledges that education is not about accumulating finite knowledge but about continuously exploring, reassessing, and refining our understanding of the world.Now, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept to expand upon Durant's quote and make the article more intriguing. Enter the concept of "Socratic wisdom." Socratic wisdom, derived from the teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates, revolved around the idea that true wisdom lies in knowing that you know nothing. In other words, it is the awareness of one's own ignorance that allows for genuine intellectual growth.Although Socratic wisdom might appear to contradict Durant's quote, it elucidates a parallel and complementary insight. Both concepts emphasize the importance of recognizing one's limitations in order to grow intellectually. Socrates believed that by humbly accepting our ignorance, we become more open to learning, questioning, and challenging existing knowledge. Similarly, Durant highlights the continuing process of education as a means of discovering and confronting one's own ignorance.The juxtaposition of Durant's quote and the concept of Socratic wisdom is thought-provoking. While Durant speaks from personal experience and introspection, Socrates, through the voice of Plato, argued that true wisdom stems from the acknowledgment of not knowing. Both perspectives encourage us to become lifelong learners, embracing the continuous unfolding of knowledge and embracing the idea of progress through discovering our own ignorance.In essence, Durant's quote serves as a poignant reminder that education is not a destination but an ever-evolving journey. It encourages us to embrace the uncertainty and infinite possibilities that lie ahead. By recognizing our own limitations and accepting that we can never fully know everything, we pave the way for intellectual growth, curiosity, and the pursuit of knowledge.In conclusion, Will Durant's quote encapsulates the paradoxical nature of education as a progressive discovery of our own ignorance. It serves as a humble reminder that the more we learn, the more aware we become of the vast expanse of the unknown. When paired with the concept of Socratic wisdom, we gain a deeper understanding of the importance of acknowledging our limitations and embracing the journey of lifelong learning. As we continue to expand our knowledge, let us remember that education, indeed, is not about possessing all the answers but rather about continuously unearthing new questions and exploring the boundaries of our understanding.