This quote emphasizes the importance of credibility and expertise in the act of teaching or critiquing others. It suggests that only those who have demonstrated their own excellence or proficiency in a particular area are in a position to instruct or judge the work of others in that same field.
The first part, "Let such teach others who themselves excel," means that those who have proven themselves to be exceptional in a certain field should be the ones to educate others in that field. It’s a call for credibility and authenticity in teaching, asserting that the best teachers are those who have first-hand experience and have achieved a high level of skill or knowledge.
The second part, "And censure freely who have written well," refers to the act of critiquing or analyzing the work of others. It suggests that those who have demonstrated their own skill in writing (or any other endeavor) have earned the right to critique the work of others. It’s a reminder that informed and constructive criticism is a valuable tool for growth and improvement, but it should come from those who have a deep understanding and proven expertise in the subject matter.
Applied to today’s world, this quote could be a reflection on the importance of credibility in our information-saturated society. In the age of the internet, anyone can voice their opinions or claim to be an expert on any subject. However, this quote reminds us to consider the source of information and to value the insights and critiques of those who have demonstrated their expertise.
In terms of personal development, it emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and striving for excellence in our chosen fields. It suggests that we should seek out mentors and teachers who have achieved what we aspire to, and that we should value the feedback and criticism from those who have proven their skill and understanding. It also encourages us to strive for excellence in our own endeavors, so that we may be in a position to guide, teach, and critique others in a constructive and informed manner.
