“Speak less than
you know;
have more than
you show.”
William Shakespeare
(Paraphrased)

It’s an interesting thing… research from more than thirty years ago indicates that some male college professors have been known to teach in such a way that the learner could not possibly understand clearly what he was teaching. For example: Instead of saying something as simple and clear as “People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones,” a professor might, instead, say something like this: “Men, women, and children, residing in virtuous modules, should refrain from projecting, by physical or mechanical means, any type of geological specimen.” 

It is suggested that, perhaps, the reason for such a pretentious style of teaching is that the professor, having more knowledge than his students, perceives himself to have a higher status than those sitting in the classroom. To share the knowledge he possesses with his students, therefore, would enable those students to know more of what he knows, thereby minimizing the disparity of knowledge between the two. This, of course, could be seen as a threat to the professor’s status.

I guess it’s also possible that those professors may have seen the image above. This image, which is meant to be humorous, rather than instructive, is not such a good idea for anyone in the teaching profession.

In William Shakespeare’s King Lear, the words quoted above (or something like them) were spoken by the Fool. They suggest that one should develop his inner character and knowledge, characterized by modesty, wisdom, and restraint, rather than seeking the approval of others. It is a call to be humble, to select one’s words carefully, and to allow one’s actions and accomplishments to speak for themselves.  

Sadly, and all too often, individuals attempt to impress others with their words and with an inflated portrayal of their worldly possessions. I know I am guilty of having done this. There have been times when, in an attempt to impress someone, I have said more than needs to be said or exaggerated my actual status. I’m not proud to admit this, but it’s true.

It’s interesting that, in King Lear, it was the Fool who spoke such words of wisdom.