What gets us into trouble is not what we don't know. It's what we know for sure that just ain't so.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Errors often stem from rigid belief in falsehoods rather than simple ignorance.
- In plain terms
- Trouble comes from being sure of wrong facts, not just lacking knowledge.
- What can you take from it?
- Question fixed beliefs to avoid mistakes.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What beliefs might you hold incorrectly?
- How do you test your certainty?
Another view
Ignorance can also lead to serious trouble.
More from Mark Twain
A man cannot be comfortable without his own approval.
Permalink to quote #161 There is something worse than ignorance, and that's knowing what ain't so.
Permalink to quote #163 Never try to teach a pig to sing. It wastes time and annoys the pig.
Permalink to quote #160
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