Quotes about knowledge and learning, verified at the source
Updated on How we verify quotes
Learning, reading, doubting: these quotes about knowledge come from philosophers, scientists and poets. Each has been checked word for word in the original work, with its source.
To copy for a new school year, a graduation, a gift to a teacher or the first page of a notebook.
Contents
Formal
Travelling in search of knowledge and meeting teachers adds greater completeness to learning.
What use is sight to a person if light and darkness are the same to him?
Travel, in the younger sort, is a part of education; in the elder, a part of experience.
Reading maketh a full man; conference a ready man; and writing an exact man.
Beauty is truth, truth beauty,—that is all ye know on earth, and all ye need to know.
Take nothing on its looks; take everything on evidence. There's no better rule.
Funny
Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.
Inspiring
I am the sea, with pearls hidden in my depths; have they asked the diver about my shells?
The noblest place in the world is the saddle of a swift horse, and the best companion is a book.
Do you know anyone nobler or greater than the one who builds and nurtures souls and minds?
I am the one whose poetry even the blind have seen, and whose words have reached the deaf.
Horses, night and desert know me, as do sword, spear, paper and pen.
Rise for the teacher and honour him: the teacher is almost a messenger.
Short
Knowledge without action is madness, and action without knowledge cannot be.
Knowledge is better than wealth: knowledge guards you, while you guard wealth.
Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.
Frequently asked questions
Which quote to thank a teacher?
A line on learning, such as Bacon’s, or a line about reading. Add a precise memory of the lessons.