The Quest for Knowledge

Abstract

This article is a quick inquiry into the quest for knowledge. Preliminary steps include the idea of light as it was promulgated during the period of Enlightenment, followed by the relevant role played by education, and then focusing on the passion for knowledge, as it is found in major literary and philosophical works. Curiosity and inquisitiveness are also mentioned because of their intrinsic value with references to classical as well as contemporary approaches. Throughout history, knowledge has been treated not only as quintessential in its multiple uses, but also prevalent because it deepened and broadened our core connection with the outside world. Famous dramatists are part of our discussion, starting with Christopher Marlowe, who condemns his Faustus and continuing with Goethe, the German poet who argues that Faustus should be forgiven because he was in the pursuit of knowledge. Along the same lines, a new approach to learning in our quest for knowledge was introduced by Peter Senge. What we do when we really learn something new is, according to Senge, what makes us human. In conclusion, we might say that the quest for knowledge brings us joy and that the passion for knowledge is an inborn trait that makes us who we are. We learn something every day and we are never satisfied because we always want to know more.