Quote #183499
Science gives us knowledge, but only philosophy can give us wisdom.
Will Durant
About This Quote
This quote needs no introduction—at least for now. We're working on adding more context soon.
Interpretation
The line draws a sharp distinction between two kinds of human achievement. “Science” is framed as the disciplined accumulation of reliable facts and explanatory theories—powerful for prediction and control—while “philosophy” is presented as the reflective activity that evaluates ends, meanings, and values. On this view, knowledge answers questions of what is the case and how things work; wisdom concerns what ought to be pursued, how to live, and how to integrate knowledge into a coherent, humane outlook. The quote also implies a warning: technical mastery without ethical or existential reflection can leave societies clever but directionless, whereas philosophical inquiry can orient knowledge toward responsible action.




