“You do ill if you praise, but worse if you censure, what you do not understand.”
- April 15, 1452 – May 2, 1519
- Italian
- A versatile man (painter, sculptor, architect, inventor, scientist, etc.)
- He created many works of art, including the paintings “Mona Lisa” and “The Last Supper,” and also left behind many pioneering ideas in science and engineering, such as “blueprints for airplanes” and “anatomical studies.”
Quote
“You do ill if you praise, but worse if you censure, what you do not understand.”
Explanation
In this quote, Leonardo da Vinci warns against the dangers of judging something that one does not fully understand. He suggests that it is unwise to praise or criticize something without having a deep understanding of it, as doing so can lead to misguided opinions. Praise without understanding can be superficial or unwarranted, while censure—criticizing or condemning—without comprehension can be even more harmful, as it may cause unjust damage to something valuable or misunderstood. Da Vinci emphasizes the importance of gaining knowledge and insight before forming judgments about something or someone.
Historically, this quote reflects Da Vinci’s belief in the value of observation and understanding. As a scientist and artist, Da Vinci was deeply committed to gaining knowledge through direct experience and study. He understood that to truly appreciate or assess something—whether in nature, art, or science—one must first seek to understand it fully. In the context of the Renaissance, this idea was particularly important, as it encouraged a shift from superficial opinions to empirical investigation.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the importance of critical thinking and the need to approach situations with open-mindedness and careful consideration. Whether in personal opinions, social issues, or professional assessments, jumping to conclusions without a full understanding can lead to misjudgments. Da Vinci’s insight encourages us to take the time to learn and understand before we form opinions, whether they are positive or negative, recognizing that only through true understanding can we make fair and informed judgments.
