Them that can do " work " do, others teach or preach

kaw69 | 00:03 Thu 11th Sep 2008 | Phrases & Sayings

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I think it is from the early 50`s what was the occasion
kaw69

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Ethel

The correct saying is:

Those that can, do; those that can't, teach; and those that can't teach, teach teachers.

There are many variations for the endings .. teach P.E is one, and a more modern take is ...become OFSTED inspectors.

No idea where it comes from though.

Buenchico

There are many variations on this quotation but most sources give the original form thus:

"He who can, does. He who cannot, teaches"
George Bernard Shaw, "Man and Superman", 1903

As a former teacher, I used to hate hearing that quote. However, I'd always counter with:

"To me the sole hope of human salvation lies in teaching."
George Bernard Shaw

Chris

chrisrob

Having been a teacher and an advisor I knew this GBS saying well. Extras were always added on the end and became, "Those who can't do, teach. Those who can't teach,teach teachers. Those who can't teach teachers, administrate." However, have to be careful now. Since met my second wife and she was a university administrator!

kaw69

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Thanks folks especially the "counter quote"

kaw69

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