Meaning: The quote by Thor Heyerdahl, a renowned Norwegian explorer and adventurer, emphasizes the importance of listening and learning from both nature and people who live close to it. Heyerdahl's experiences as an explorer and anthropologist led him to recognize the value of observing and understanding the world beyond the confines of traditional academic settings.

In the quote, Heyerdahl suggests that the act of listening is a powerful tool for gaining knowledge and understanding. He implies that by actively listening to others, whether they are human or natural elements like the wind, we can gain valuable insights that may not be readily available within the confines of formal education. This idea challenges the notion that learning is solely derived from speaking and disseminating information, emphasizing the importance of receptive and attentive listening as a means of acquiring wisdom.

Heyerdahl's reference to "both the wind and the people who continue to live close to nature" highlights his belief in the wealth of knowledge that can be gained from observing and interacting with the natural world. His experiences studying indigenous cultures and embarking on expeditions to remote locations informed his understanding of the depth of wisdom held by those who live in harmony with nature. By acknowledging the wisdom of these individuals and the natural elements around them, Heyerdahl encourages a broader perspective on learning that extends beyond conventional academic environments.

The mention of "university walls" in the quote alludes to the limitations of formal education in providing a comprehensive understanding of the world. Heyerdahl suggests that there are valuable lessons and insights that cannot be fully appreciated or learned within the confines of a university setting. This challenges the traditional idea that formal education is the sole source of knowledge and wisdom, emphasizing the importance of seeking knowledge beyond institutional boundaries.

Heyerdahl's own experiences as an explorer and his famous expeditions, such as the Kon-Tiki and Ra, exemplify his commitment to learning from the natural world and indigenous cultures. His voyages were not only feats of exploration but also opportunities to gain insights from the environments and people he encountered. These experiences likely influenced his perspective on the value of listening and learning from sources outside of traditional academic frameworks.

Overall, Heyerdahl's quote underscores the idea that true learning extends beyond the confines of traditional educational institutions. By acknowledging the wisdom of nature and those who live in harmony with it, Heyerdahl highlights the importance of listening and observing as essential components of acquiring knowledge and understanding. His perspective serves as a reminder to remain open to the lessons that the world around us has to offer, and to recognize that valuable insights can be gained through attentive listening and observation.