Sixty years ago I knew everything; now I know nothing; education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance.

The quote “Sixty years ago I knew everything; now I know nothing; education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance.” is attributed to Will Durant, the American historian, philosopher, and writer best known for The Story of Civilization, which he co-authored with his wife Ariel. At its core, the statement reflects the paradox of education: the more one learns, the more one becomes aware of the vastness of what is still unknown. Durant humorously contrasts youthful certainty with the humility that comes from a lifetime of learning.

The origin of this idea lies in Durant’s lifelong devotion to the study of history, philosophy, and culture. Having spent decades compiling knowledge about human civilization, Durant recognized that each new discovery only revealed further layers of ignorance. His words echo a long philosophical tradition, stretching back to Socrates, who claimed that true wisdom begins with the recognition of one’s own ignorance. Durant thus situates himself within this tradition of humility before the endless scope of human knowledge.

The meaning of the quote underscores that education is not about reaching a final point of absolute knowledge but about embracing the process of questioning and discovery. When people are young, they often believe they “know everything,” but as they gain more experience and understanding, they realize how limited their knowledge truly is. This awareness is not discouraging—it is the very essence of intellectual growth and the key to wisdom.

Ultimately, Durant’s reflection is both personal and universal. It serves as a reminder that true wisdom lies not in claiming certainty but in cultivating humility, curiosity, and a willingness to continue learning. By framing education as a “progressive discovery of our own ignorance,” Durant elevates the journey of lifelong learning as the most meaningful achievement of all.