Enlightenment is man's leaving his self-caused immaturity. Immaturity is the incapacity to use one's intelligence without the guidance of another. Such immaturity is self-caused if it is not caused by lack of intelligence, but by lack of determination and courage to use one's intelligence without being guided by another. Sapere Aude! [Dare to know!] Have the courage to use your own intelligence! is therefore the motto of the enlightenment.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Enlightenment means freeing oneself from self‑imposed immaturity by daring to think independently.
- In plain terms
- Think for yourself instead of relying on others.
- What can you take from it?
- Cultivate courage to use your own reason.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What does it mean to be mature intellectually?
- When is guidance beneficial?
Another view
Complete independence can lead to overlooking valuable expertise.
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