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About this quote

What does it mean?
People who think they know a little bit about something are often the most foolish.
In plain terms
Those with little knowledge are often the most arrogant.
What can you take from it?
A little knowledge can be dangerous.

Where it applies

  • debates
  • learning environments
  • workplace dynamics

Putting it to work

  • admitting ignorance
  • seeking deeper understanding

Questions to consider

  • When did you learn the most?
  • How do you measure true understanding?

Another view

Some may argue confidence comes from partial knowledge.

More from John Donne

  1. I am two fools, I know, For loving, and for saying so In whining poetry.

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  2. Sweetest love, I do not go, For weariness of thee, Nor in hope the world can show A fitter love for me; But since that I Must die at last, 'tis best, To use my…

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  3. As well a well-wrought urn becomes The greatest ashes, as half-acre tombs.

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