The quote “All teaching and all intellectual learning come about from already existing knowledge” essentially means that all the knowledge we acquire or impart is built upon a foundation of what we already know. It’s an echo of the concept of ‘scaffolding’ in learning theory, where new information is connected to prior knowledge, making it easier to understand and remember.

This idea is fundamental to how we learn and grow intellectually. When we learn something new, we don’t simply absorb it in isolation. Instead, we connect it to something we already understand, building upon our existing knowledge base. This is why teaching often involves analogies or examples that relate to experiences or knowledge that the learner already possesses.

In today’s world, this concept is more relevant than ever. The sheer volume of information available to us can be overwhelming. However, if we approach new information by connecting it to what we already know, it becomes more manageable and meaningful. This is also the basis for interdisciplinary studies, where knowledge from one field is used to enrich understanding in another.

In terms of personal development, this idea suggests that our past experiences and knowledge are not obsolete but are stepping stones to further growth. We should value and draw upon our existing knowledge when learning new skills or facing new challenges. It also implies that effective learning is not about memorizing isolated facts but about understanding how new information fits into our existing knowledge framework. This can make learning more enjoyable and rewarding, as well as more effective.