Famous quote by Franz Grillparzer

"Although your knowledge is weak and small, you need not be silent: since you cannot be judges be at least witnesses"

About this Quote

Franz Grillparzer's quote, "Although your understanding is weak and little, you need not be quiet: given that you can not be judges be at least witnesses", conveys a powerful message about the function of people in the realm of understanding and discourse, regardless of their perceived constraints. At its core, the quote encourages involvement and engagement, stressing that lack of substantial understanding need to not preclude one from adding to conversations or bearing witness to events and experiences.

Grillparzer starts by acknowledging the limits of specific understanding, describing it as "weak and little". This phrasing recognizes an universally shared reality: nobody has complete understanding or outright knowledge in any field. Such humbleness in acknowledging one's limitations is crucial, as it forms the basis for discovering and development. Nevertheless, the quote rapidly moves from this admission of insufficiency to a call to action. By specifying, "you require not be quiet", Grillparzer recommends that a person ought to not permit their limited understanding to become an excuse for passivity or disengagement.

The latter part of the quote, "because you can not be judges be at least witnesses", offers a valuable difference in between two functions in the pursuit of knowledge. Being a "judge" suggests having authority and detailed understanding to make definitive assessments or choices. On the other hand, being a "witness" requires presence, attention, and the determination to observe and report. Grillparzer highlights the value of the witness role, recommending that attesting is a vital and valuable contribution, even when one does not have the depth of knowledge to pass judgment.

In a more comprehensive social context, the quote encourages active involvement and the sharing of point of views and experiences. It highlights the idea that everyone's voice matters in the collective discourse, and by attesting, individuals can contribute to a richer, more diverse understanding of the world. This involvement, in turn, cultivates a culture of inclusivity and continuous knowing, where each person, despite their proficiency, plays a part in the larger story.

More details

TagsKnowledge

About the Author

Austria Flag This quote is written / told by Franz Grillparzer between January 15, 1791 and January 21, 1872. He/she was a famous Poet from Austria. The author also have 27 other quotes.
Go to author profile

Similar Quotes