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About this quote

What does it mean?
Thought comes from action, and experience comes from thought, so real learning happens through living, not books.
In plain terms
You learn from doing and thinking, not just reading.
What can you take from it?
Live to learn, not just read.

Where it applies

  • educating students
  • self-improvement
  • career development

Putting it to work

  • seek hands-on experience
  • reflect on actions
  • balance theory with practice

Questions to consider

  • Can you truly know men from books?
  • How does action shape thought?

Another view

Books can still provide valuable foundational knowledge.

More from Benjamin Disraeli

  1. There is no act of treachery or meanness of which a political party is not capable; for in politics there is no honour.

    Permalink to quote #88
  2. Variety is the mother of Enjoyment.

    Permalink to quote #90
  3. Fear makes us feel our humanity.

    Permalink to quote #87

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  3. Learning is pleasurable but doing is the height of enjoyment.

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