Knowledge is Power?

Most of us have heard that knowledge is power. Sir Francis Bacon noted this almost four hundred years ago. It makes sense, doesn't it? We call this conventional wisdom.

But…It’s wrong!

Knowledge is NOT power.

• If knowledge were power, there would be no obese doctors, nurses or dietitians from unhealthy eating.

• We would all be eating properly because we know better.

• We would all exercise.

• No one would smoke, abuse alcohol or use addictive drugs.

• We would all vote.

Since knowledge isn’t power, what is?

Action is power

Action always acquires knowledge

Knowledge without action acquires nothing.

Action with knowledge is more powerful. Therefore, knowledge is a power amplifier, not the power.

The power of knowledge only lies in action – not inaction.

"The greater aim of education is not knowledge but action.

Herbert Spencer

(1881)

Action trumps talent and intellect.

It takes mental and physical action to acquire knowledge and

It takes mental and physical action to use knowledge.

“To know, and not to do, is not to know”

Stephen R. Covey

(1931-2012)

Action is power