Perfecting oneself is as much unlearning as it is learning.

Meaning

This quote focuses on the idea of wisdom. It suggests that wisdom grows through experience and reminds us that mistakes teach valuable lessons. The message encourages us to consider how we think before acting.

Theme

As a foundational human concern, wisdom appears in many sayings. It matters because wisdom guides important decisions, and this quote reminds us that listening brings understanding.

About the Author

A number of familiar sayings are associated with Edsger Dijkstra. This one stands out due to its focus on wisdom.

Style and Structure

The phrasing is minimalistic, using contrast to focus attention on the core idea.

FAQ

What is the message?
wisdom grows through experience.

Why is it shared?
It captures a universal truth about wisdom.

What can we learn?
we think before acting is an important part of daily life.