Luc de Clapiers: 'The things we know best are the things we haven't been taught.'

The things we know best are the things we haven't been taught.

In his famous quote, Luc de Clapiers, the Marquis de Vauvenargues, posits that the things we know best are not the ones we have learned from others, but rather those we have discovered and understood on our own. This quote serves as a reminder of our innate curiosity and the power of self-discovery in acquiring knowledge. It emphasizes the importance of personal experience and individual interpretation in developing a deep understanding of the world around us.At first glance, this quote may appear to simply imply the significance of personal exploration and experience in gaining knowledge. It suggests that while traditional education plays a crucial role in our intellectual development, our most profound insights are often the result of our own observations, reflections, and intuitive understanding. It encourages us to question, observe, and seek our own answers, rather than passively accepting what we are told.However, delving deeper into the quote, we can uncover a more philosophical concept that adds an unexpected layer of interest to the discussion. Let us explore the idea that the things we know best are not simply the ones we haven't been taught, but rather the things we can't be taught. This raises the profound question of whether knowledge can truly be transmitted and acquired through external sources alone, or if it is an inherently subjective and personal experience.To further comprehend this concept, imagine two individuals learning the same subject matter. One person diligently attends lectures, reads textbooks, and absorbs every piece of information disseminated to them. The other person, however, takes a different approach. They supplement their studies with hands-on experiences, conducts personal experiments, and critically questions the established principles. In this scenario, it is plausible to argue that the latter individual's understanding will transcend the boundaries of conventional education and establish a more intimate connection with the subject matter.This juxtaposition highlights the distinction between mere knowledge and true understanding. While knowledge can be shared and acquired through education, understanding necessitates a personal engagement with the material. Understanding represents a profound assimilation of information, imbued with personal perspectives, reflections, and insights. It arises from the synthesis of external information and internal contemplation, leading to a unique interpretation of the subject matter.Consider a budding astronomer who spends years poring over textbooks and attending lectures about the cosmos. They accumulate an impressive array of knowledge about celestial bodies, their characteristics, and their behavior. However, without venturing out to gaze at the stars themselves, without feeling the vastness of the universe, and without pondering the intricate connections and patterns hidden amongst the cosmic canvas, this knowledge may remain superficial. It is through personal observation and contemplation that a true understanding of the awe-inspiring universe can be attained.This concept challenges the traditional notion of education as a mere transference of knowledge from teacher to student. It implies that education should not be limited to the mere absorption of facts and information but should also encourage critical thinking, self-reflection, and the freedom to explore beyond the confines of established knowledge.In essence, Luc de Clapiers' quote speaks to the innate human capacity for independent discovery and the transformative power of self-knowledge. It urges us to go beyond the boundaries of what we are taught and venture into the uncharted territories of our own understanding. It reminds us that true knowledge lies not in the accumulation of facts but in the personal engagement, introspection, and synthesis of ideas that allow us to form a unique and profound perspective of the world.In conclusion, the quote by Luc de Clapiers invites us to embrace our innate curiosity and recognize the importance of personal experiences and self-discovery in acquiring knowledge. Its power lies in its encouragement of critical thinking, questioning, and independent exploration. By integrating our own observations and reflections with external information, we can transcend the boundaries of traditional education and attain a deeper level of understanding. Ultimately, the things we truly know best are those that we have discovered and interpreted for ourselves, paving the way for personal growth, intellectual development, and the expansion of human knowledge.