Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson

I hate this shallow Americanism which hopes to get rich by credit, to get knowledge by raps on midnight tables, to learn the economy of the mind by phrenology, or skill without study, or mastery without apprenticeship.

I hate this shallow Americanism which hopes to get rich by c

Summary

This quote criticizes the shallow mindset prevalent in America that seeks easy paths to wealth, knowledge, and expertise. It condemns the reliance on credit and shortcuts instead of hard work and financial prudence. The quote also mocks the idea of gaining knowledge through superstitious practices like midnight table-tapping, or claiming mastery in a field without putting in the necessary time and effort. It highlights the speaker's disdain for the culture of instant gratification and the pursuit of success without genuine dedication and perseverance.

Topics

America

By Ralph Waldo Emerson

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