This type of man who is devoted to the study of wisdom is always most unlucky in everything, and particularly when it comes to procreating children; I imagine this is because Nature wants to ensure that the evils of wisdom shall not spread further throughout mankind.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Erasmus claims wise men are unlucky and have few children because nature prevents their evils from spreading.
- In plain terms
- He thinks wise men are unlucky and have few kids to stop their negative ideas from spreading.
- What can you take from it?
- Some fear knowledge brings misfortune or limits legacy.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does wisdom protect you or harm you?
- How does nature limit knowledge?
Another view
It frames wisdom as evil without proof.
More from Desiderius Erasmus
For what is life but a play in which everyone acts a part until the curtain comes down?
Permalink to quote #3 Do not be guilty of possessing a library of learned books while lacking learning yourself.
Permalink to quote #5 In regione caecorum rex est luscus.
Permalink to quote #2
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