I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.

"We are all born ignorant, but one must work hard to remain stupid."

Rewrite in modern language.

The statements are poignant and in a modern translation would read something like this:

Explanation:

I do not agree with your opinions but I will defend your freedom to say it to my dying breath.

When we are born we are all ignorant. But one has to work very hard to remain stupid as they grow up.

The first statement is straightforward and affirms freedom of expression even at disagreement of opinions while the second makes out the difference between the ignorance of childhood and stupidity of adulthood. The statement says that it takes a special type of hard work to not earn in the world.