The Purpose of Learning: “The Ancients Learned for Themselves, the Moderns Learn for Others”

Confucius said: “In ancient times, men learned to improve themselves; today, they learn to impress others.”

In ancient times, men learned with a view to their own improvement. Nowadays, men learn with a view to the approbation of others.

古之学者为己,今之学者为人。

Source: The Analects, Xian Wen XIV, Chapter 24

Author: Confucius

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