"We can be knowledgable with other men's knowledge but we cannot be wise with other men's wisdom"
- Michel de Montaigne
About this Quote
This quote by Michel de Montaigne speaks to the idea that understanding can be acquired from others, but wisdom is something that needs to be made through experience. Understanding is the build-up of truths and details, while wisdom is the ability to apply that knowledge in a meaningful method. Knowledge can be gained from books, lectures, and conversations, but knowledge is something that should be cultivated through life experiences. It is not something that can be taught or learned from another individual. Knowledge is the outcome of making errors, gaining from them, and growing from them. It is the ability to make decisions based upon a deep understanding of the circumstance and the possible consequences. We can get knowledge from others, but we must develop our own knowledge.
"Raising children is an incredibly hard and risky business in which no cumulative wisdom is gained: each generation repeats the mistakes the previous one made"
"The man who makes everything that leads to happiness depends upon himself, and not upon other men, has adopted the very best plan for living happily. This is the man of moderation, the man of manly character and of wisdom"
