Roger Ascham: 'The least learned, for the most part, have been always most ready to write.'

The least learned, for the most part, have been always most ready to write.

In his statement, "The least learned, for the most part, have been always most ready to write," Roger Ascham highlights a curious phenomenon where those with limited knowledge often demonstrate a heightened eagerness to partake in writing. This quote carries significant meaning, suggesting that individuals who lack deep understanding in a subject matter may exhibit a greater readiness to express their thoughts through writing. While this observation may seem counterintuitive at first, it unveils a hidden and profound truth about human nature.At face value, Ascham's quote implies that those who possess less knowledge or expertise are more prone to put their thoughts into writing. This inclination can be attributed to a combination of factors. Firstly, individuals with limited knowledge often possess a sense of curiosity, an eagerness to explore new ideas and share their perspectives. The act of penning down their thoughts allows them to participate in intellectual discourse and potentially contribute valuable insights, even if their understanding may be limited.Furthermore, those who lack extensive knowledge may feel less inhibited by established norms or the fear of being judged. Without being burdened by the weight of excessive expertise, they have the freedom to express their unfiltered thoughts and explore unconventional ideas. This untethered creativity can lead to new and fresh perspectives that might not arise from the minds of the highly learned. Ascham's quote thus suggests that sometimes, expertise can inadvertently impede the uninhibited flow of thoughts, leading to a hesitancy to write.While the quote captures an interesting observation about the relationship between expertise and writing, it also opens the door to a profound philosophical concept – the idea that knowledge, or the lack thereof, may not always be a direct determinant of the value or originality of one's ideas. In a world that often glorifies intellectual prowess, Ascham's statement challenges the conventional notion that deep learning is a prerequisite for meaningful contributions.This philosophical concept invites us to consider the possibility that our biases towards expertise may limit our ability to fully appreciate the perspectives and creative insights of those outside traditional realms of knowledge. Writing by the least learned may offer a refreshing departure from the established norms, providing alternative viewpoints and novel arguments. Their lack of deep knowledge enables them to approach subjects with a beginner's mind, unencumbered by preconceived notions or expectations.In contrast, highly learned individuals may be more inclined to stick to established patterns of thinking, relying heavily on existing frameworks and theories. While their expertise undoubtedly contributes immense value, it can inadvertently breed a sort of intellectual rigidity, making it more difficult to break away from the status quo. As such, the quote by Ascham sparks a compelling juxtaposition, challenging us to question the hierarchy we often ascribe to knowledge and expertise.In conclusion, Roger Ascham's quote, "The least learned, for the most part, have been always most ready to write," encapsulates a fascinating observation about the correlation between knowledge and writing. While it may seem paradoxical, this statement highlights the unique perspectives and uninhibited creativity that the least learned can bring to the table. By challenging our biases towards expertise, Ascham's quote encourages us to foster an open mindset, welcoming the contributions of individuals who may not possess encyclopedic knowledge but can offer fresh and valuable insights. In a world that values expertise, let us not dismiss the unique power of the unlearned to reshape our understanding and perception of complex subjects.