“We cannot wish for that we know not.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
Quote
“We cannot wish for that we know not.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s belief in the limitations of human desire and understanding. He suggests that it is impossible for us to wish for something we have no knowledge of, as our desires are shaped by what we are aware of or have experienced. Without awareness of an idea, object, or experience, it cannot become a subject of longing or aspiration. Voltaire’s observation underscores the relationship between knowledge and desire, implying that our wishes are confined to what we know or imagine.
In modern contexts, this idea resonates with how personal growth, learning, and exposure shape our aspirations. As we discover new possibilities or ideas, our desires and goals expand beyond what we previously thought possible. Voltaire’s quote highlights the importance of knowledge and experience in shaping our futures, suggesting that our understanding of the world directly influences our ambitions and dreams.
A specific example of this principle can be seen in how technology has influenced human desires. Before the invention of smartphones or the internet, few people would have aspired to own one, as the concept was beyond their knowledge. Voltaire’s words remind us that our desires evolve with our understanding of the world, and what we wish for today may have been unimaginable in the past.
