The men of experiment are like the ant; they only collect and use. But the bee . . . gathers its materials from the flowers of the garden and of the field, but transforms and digests it by a power of its own.

Summary

This quote highlights the difference between individuals who merely gather and use knowledge (represented by the ant) and those who not only gather information but also possess the ability to transform and apply it uniquely (represented by the bee). It suggests that while both gathering and using information are important, true innovation and achievement occur when one is able to go beyond the surface level and develop their own perspective and insights through personal reflection and analysis.

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