“The intelligent man finds almost everything ridiculous, the sensible man hardly anything.”
- August 28, 1749 – March 22, 1832
- German
- Poet, playwright, novelist, philosopher, politician
- His literary works “Faust” and “The Sorrows of Young Werther” had a major impact on world literature.
Quote
“The intelligent man finds almost everything ridiculous, the sensible man hardly anything.”
Explanation
Goethe contrasts the intelligent man, who tends to see the absurdities and contradictions in the world, with the sensible man, who remains more pragmatic and balanced in his perceptions. The intelligent man, due to his ability to analyze and critically evaluate situations, often finds many things to be ridiculous, as he is aware of the flaws and limitations in most ideas or behaviors. On the other hand, the sensible man tends to take a more practical, grounded approach and does not get caught up in the trivial or the extremes. He sees the world in a way that allows him to remain steady and reasonable, not easily shocked or amused by the world’s inconsistencies.
Historically, this idea speaks to Goethe’s exploration of human nature and the balance between intellect and practicality. During the Enlightenment and Romantic periods, thinkers like Goethe valued reason and wisdom, but also recognized the importance of moderation and practicality in life. The intelligent man, in Goethe’s eyes, may have an acute understanding of the world but may also be prone to overthinking or seeing problems everywhere, while the sensible man knows how to navigate life with clarity and peace.
In modern contexts, this idea is relevant in how we view critical thinking versus practical decision-making. In today’s world, we are often bombarded with information, and the ability to be intelligent and analytical is highly valued, yet there is also a need for practicality and common sense. For example, in leadership, a highly intelligent person may see flaws or issues in every situation, while a sensible leader knows how to keep things running smoothly without getting bogged down in the minutiae.
Goethe’s words remind us that both intelligence and sensibility have their places. Intelligence helps us understand the complexities of life, but sensibility helps us navigate those complexities without becoming overwhelmed or cynical. True wisdom lies in knowing when to apply one or the other, balancing both for a more harmonious approach to the world.
