"The worst pain a man can suffer: to have insight into much and power over nothing"
- Herodotus
About this Quote
This quote by Herodotus speaks with the concept of having knowledge and understanding of a scenario, but not having the power to do anything about it. It suggests that the worst sort of discomfort a male can suffer is the sensation of vulnerability that originates from knowing an issue, however not having the capability to do anything to repair it. This could be used to a range of situations, such as understanding an enjoyed one's suffering, however not being able to help them. It might likewise be used to a circumstance in which a person is aware of a larger problem in the world, but feels helpless to do anything to make a difference. In either case, the feeling of vulnerability can be exceptionally agonizing and difficult to bear. Ultimately, this quote talks to the idea that knowledge and understanding can be a double-edged sword, as it can bring both insight and discomfort.