"They that know no evil will suspect none"

Ben Jonson’s assertion, “They that know no evil will suspect none,” reveals a profound observation about human nature and the experience of innocence versus cynicism. Those unfamiliar with malevolent intent or actions often possess a worldview shaped by purity, naivety, or genuine goodness. To “know no evil” is not simply ignorance of wrongdoing, but rather a state in which one has neither witnessed nor come to understand acts borne of malice, deceit, or cruelty. Consequently, individuals who have not internalized the possibility of evil lack a frame of reference to recognize it in the world around them.

In practical terms, those who embody innocence frequently approach others and situations with trust and openness. Their judgments are not colored by suspicion because their own hearts are free from guile. The absence of knowledge about evil facilitates a kind of moral blindness; they do not anticipate betrayal, dishonesty, or harm because such concepts remain alien to their own experiences. In some cases, this can make such individuals vulnerable, as their lack of suspicion may prevent them from protecting themselves against nefarious motives.

Conversely, those who have encountered or perpetrated evil become more attuned to its presence and possibilities. Their own experiences seed wariness and skepticism, prompting them to search for ulterior motives or dark possibilities in even mundane interactions. Jonson’s words highlight the link between personal virtue (or inexperience) and the perception of reality. Innocence operates as both a shield and a limitation. While it preserves a sense of trust and open-heartedness, it also hampers one’s ability to detect and guard against harm.

This observation serves as both a wistful tribute to the purity of the uncorrupted soul and a subtle warning about the perils of unknowing innocence. It prompts reflection on the balance between trust and vigilance, suggesting that one’s knowledge of evil, whether sorely won or blissfully absent, shapes how they perceive and engage with the world.