Knowledge is of two kinds. We know a subject ourselves, or we know where we can find information upon it.

The quote, “Knowledge is of two kinds. We know a subject ourselves, or we know where we can find information upon it,” is attributed to Samuel Johnson, the 18th-century English writer, critic, and lexicographer best known for compiling A Dictionary of the English Language (1755). Johnson’s works often reflected his practical and philosophical approach to knowledge and learning, and this statement captures his pragmatic view of how people acquire and use information.

The first kind of knowledge, “we know a subject ourselves,” refers to direct understanding or mastery of a topic. This means internalizing facts, concepts, and skills to the point where one can recall and apply them without assistance. Johnson valued this form of knowledge as it reflects personal learning and intellectual independence.

The second kind, “we know where we can find information upon it,” emphasizes the importance of resourcefulness. Even if one does not memorize every detail, knowing where to access reliable sources—books, experts, or references—is itself a form of knowledge. This reflects Johnson’s belief in the power of libraries, dictionaries, and learned institutions as essential tools for expanding human understanding.

Ultimately, Johnson’s quote reminds us that knowledge is not limited to personal memory but also includes the ability to seek and locate information. In essence, wisdom lies in both what we know and how effectively we can find what we do not. This practical view of knowledge remains highly relevant today, especially in an age of vast information resources and digital access.