Real education must ultimately be limited to men who insist on knowing, the rest is mere sheep herding

Real education must ultimately be limited to men who insist on knowing, the rest is mere sheep herding

Ezra Pound, a renowned American poet and critic, was known for his strong opinions on education and the importance of intellectual curiosity. The quote “Real education must ultimately be limited to men who insist on knowing, the rest is mere sheep herding” reflects Pound’s belief that true education is reserved for those who are truly dedicated to seeking knowledge and understanding.

Pound believed that education should not be a passive process, but rather an active pursuit of truth and enlightenment. He saw education as a means of liberation, a way for individuals to break free from the constraints of ignorance and conformity. In Pound’s view, those who are content to simply follow the herd and accept the status quo without question are not truly educated, but rather mere followers who are being herded along by others.

For Pound, the true purpose of education was to cultivate a spirit of inquiry and a thirst for knowledge. He believed that true education should challenge individuals to think critically, question assumptions, and seek out new ideas. Those who are content to simply go through the motions of education without actively engaging with the material are missing out on the true value of learning.

Pound’s emphasis on the importance of intellectual curiosity and a commitment to seeking knowledge is reflected in his own work as a poet and critic. Throughout his career, Pound was known for his voracious appetite for literature and his willingness to explore new ideas and perspectives. He was not content to simply accept the conventional wisdom of his time, but instead sought out new voices and perspectives to expand his own understanding of the world.