Curosity Quotes
A man who knows how little he knows is well, a man who knows how much he knows is sick.
"A man who knows how little he knows is well, a man who knows how much he knows is sick."— Lao Tzu
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Meaning of this quote
Recognizing the limits of knowledge leaves room to learn. The contrast with sickness challenges the certainty of someone who mistakes confidence for understanding.
Key takeaway:
Acknowledge what you do not yet understand.
Origin of the quote
Tao Te Ching, Chapter 71, Witter Bynner’s English rendering.
Who actually said this?
VerifiedThe comparative translation reference identifies Bynner’s wording. The health metaphor concerns intellectual humility, not a medical diagnosis.
