Meaning: This quote by Isaac Asimov, the renowned scientist and author, delves into the distinction between reading and contemplation, and the value of each in the pursuit of knowledge. The quote suggests that while reading is important, it is the depth of contemplation and reflection that truly enhances one's understanding and wisdom.

Asimov, a prolific writer and a polymath, was known for his extensive reading and wide-ranging knowledge across various scientific and literary disciplines. The quote reflects his personal philosophy on the nature of learning and intellectual growth. It highlights the idea that simply accumulating a vast amount of information through reading does not guarantee a deeper understanding of the world. Instead, it is the process of contemplation and critical thinking that allows one to internalize and make sense of the knowledge acquired through reading.

The first part of the quote, "He had read much, if one considers his long life; but his contemplation was much more than his reading," suggests that the individual in question has indeed engaged in a significant amount of reading over the course of his long life. However, it emphasizes that the time spent in contemplation and reflection far outweighs the time spent in reading. This implies that the quality of one's contemplation, rather than the quantity of one's reading, is what truly matters in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

The quote continues with the statement, "He was wont to say that if he had read as much as other men he should have known no more than other men." This line encapsulates Asimov's belief that the value of knowledge does not solely lie in the volume of information consumed. Instead, it underscores the importance of how one engages with the material they encounter. Merely reading the same amount as others does not inherently lead to a greater understanding or insight. The implication is that the depth and quality of one's contemplation and reflection are what set individuals apart in terms of their intellectual growth and comprehension.

Asimov's perspective aligns with the idea that true wisdom is derived from critical thinking, analysis, and the ability to synthesize information rather than just accumulating facts and figures. This aligns with the concept of active learning, where individuals engage with the material, question it, and apply it to real-world scenarios, rather than passively absorbing information.

In conclusion, Isaac Asimov's quote sheds light on the importance of contemplation and critical thinking in the process of knowledge acquisition. It emphasizes that while reading is valuable, the depth of contemplation far surpasses the mere accumulation of information. Asimov's belief in the significance of contemplation and reflection serves as a reminder that true understanding and wisdom are derived from the quality of engagement with knowledge, rather than the quantity of information consumed.