Knowledge is proud that it knows so much; wisdom is humble that it knows no more

Knowledge is proud that it knows so much; wisdom is humble that it knows no more

William Cowper was an English poet and hymnodist who lived in the 18th century. He is known for his works that often reflected his deep Christian faith and his struggles with mental illness. One of his most famous quotes is, “Knowledge is proud that it knows so much; wisdom is humble that it knows no more.”

This quote speaks to the difference between knowledge and wisdom, and how they are perceived by society. Knowledge is often seen as something to be proud of, something that sets individuals apart from others. It is the accumulation of facts, information, and experiences that one has acquired over time. Knowledge can be a powerful tool, but it can also lead to arrogance and a sense of superiority over others.

On the other hand, wisdom is often associated with humility. It is the ability to apply knowledge in a way that is thoughtful, compassionate, and ethical. Wisdom is not just about knowing facts, but about understanding the deeper meaning behind them and using that understanding to make wise decisions. Wisdom is about recognizing the limits of one’s knowledge and being open to learning more.