"Learning gives us a fuller conviction of the imperfections of our nature; which one would think, might dispose us to modesty"

Jeremy Collier's quote explores the paradoxical relationship in between learning and humility. At its core, the declaration recommends that as people gain understanding, they become increasingly familiar with their own limitations and imperfections. This newly found awareness needs to ideally cause modesty. Let's break down the quote even more.

Collier begins by asserting that "discovering gives us a fuller conviction of the imperfections of our nature". This suggests that with education and understanding comes a much deeper awareness of our own drawbacks. As we discover more, we end up being mindful of the vast stretch of understanding that remains uncharted and the inherent fallibility that characterizes humanity. In a sense, finding out functions as a mirror, reflecting not just what we know however likewise highlighting the spaces in our understanding.

The latter part of the quote, "which one would believe, may dispose us to modesty", proposes that this awareness needs to naturally result in humility. If learning lays bare our flaws, it seems logical that a modest attitude would follow. Modesty, in this context, is not almost downplaying one's abilities but acknowledging the unlimited nature of understanding and the limits of personal understanding.

However, implicit in Collier's words is a critique or observation of human habits. Regardless of the rational connection in between learning and modesty, people do not always end up being more simple as they end up being more educated. Intellectual conceit can occur when people overstate the scope of their knowledge. Collier appears to be warning against such pride, recommending that the real sign of wisdom is modesty.

In summary, the quote challenges us to assess how knowing needs to preferably shape our attitudes. By recognizing our flaws through knowing, we are motivated to embrace a position of humility, acknowledging that no matter how much we know, there is constantly more to discover and comprehend.