In other words, knowledge of the external world begins with an immediate utilisation of things, whereas knowledge of self is stopped by this purely practical and utilitarian contact.

The quote by Jean Piaget explores the distinction between knowledge of the external world and knowledge of self. Piaget suggests that humans acquire understanding of the world around them through direct, practical, and utilitarian interactions with things. By engaging with objects and observing cause-and-effect relationships, individuals develop a concrete grasp of their environment, enabling learning and problem-solving.

In contrast, Piaget argues that knowledge of self is more complex and cannot be fully attained through mere practical contact. Self-understanding requires introspection, reflection, and awareness of one’s thoughts, emotions, and motivations. Unlike external knowledge, which can be measured and tested through interaction, internal knowledge is abstract and often resisted by the purely utilitarian approach.

The quote highlights Piaget’s broader theory of cognitive development, which emphasizes stages of learning and the processes by which humans construct knowledge. While interaction with the physical world builds foundational understanding, developing self-awareness demands higher-level cognitive processes and a departure from purely practical engagement.

Originating from Jean Piaget, a pioneering developmental psychologist, the quote reflects his lifelong focus on how humans acquire knowledge. Piaget’s insights bridge the study of external learning and internal reflection, emphasizing that while we can manipulate and learn from the world around us, truly knowing ourselves requires deliberate thought beyond immediate, utilitarian experience.