“Ah! yes, I know: those who see me rarely trust my word: I must look too intelligent to keep it.”
- June 21, 1905 – April 15, 1980
- Born in France
- Philosopher, novelist, playwright
- He advocated existentialism and had a major influence on 20th century thought through works such as “Being and Nothingness” and “Nausea”
Quote
“Ah! yes, I know: those who see me rarely trust my word: I must look too intelligent to keep it.”
Explanation
In this quote, Sartre humorously reflects on the paradoxical relationship between intelligence and trust. He suggests that his outward appearance of being “too intelligent” leads others to be suspicious or skeptical of his words. This highlights a deeper social phenomenon where people may question the authenticity or honesty of someone they perceive as highly intelligent, possibly because they assume such individuals are more calculating, manipulative, or capable of deception. In essence, Sartre acknowledges that his intelligence may cause others to view him with distrust, assuming that a smart person is more likely to deceive or have hidden motives, rather than simply trusting what they say.
This quote also touches on social dynamics and how intelligence can shape how one is perceived. It suggests a disconnect between the inner truth of one’s statements and the way they are received based on external perceptions. Sartre’s reflection here is tied to the existential idea of authenticity—how we present ourselves and how others perceive us can be at odds with our true selves. In this case, intelligence, which might seem like a positive trait, is ironically leading to a lack of trust and understanding.
In modern contexts, this quote could resonate with how individuals in professional settings or social interactions are often misjudged based on their expertise or intellectual capacity. People who are perceived as highly knowledgeable might find it harder to be trusted or believed because others assume they are capable of manipulating or over-intellectualizing the situation. Sartre’s insight speaks to the complexities of human relationships and the ways in which intelligence—or any other perceived characteristic—can impact how one is perceived and how their words are received by others.
