What you don't know can't hurt you
Meaning
Not being aware of a problem, unpleasant truth, or danger can protect one from experiencing anxiety, worry, or suffering related to it.
Origin
Long before the age of instant information, a quiet truth often held sway: some things were better left unknown. While the exact phrase 'What you don't know can't hurt you' gained widespread popularity and cemented itself in the English lexicon during the 20th century, the core sentiment is far older, echoing through ancient philosophies and folk wisdom. It speaks to a deep human desire for tranquility, suggesting that ignorance can be a powerful, unwitting shield against anxiety and pain. It's a comforting thought, painting a picture of a world where troubles, once hidden, simply lose their power to wound.
Examples
- I decided not to read the news about the economic downturn, firmly believing that what you don't know can't hurt you.
- She never found out about the near-miss accident with her car that morning, and truly, what you don't know can't hurt you.