“To succeed in the world it is not enough to be stupid, you must also be well-mannered.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
Quote
“To succeed in the world it is not enough to be stupid, you must also be well-mannered.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s satirical perspective on social success and the role of politeness in achieving it. He suggests that while being foolish or lacking intelligence may not prevent success, social skills—specifically, good manners—are necessary to navigate the world effectively. Voltaire emphasizes the importance of outward appearance and social grace, pointing out that success often depends not just on one’s abilities but also on how one interacts with others and presents oneself.
In modern contexts, this idea resonates with the social dynamics in many professional and personal environments. While intelligence or technical skill is important, the ability to navigate social situations, maintain polite behavior, and build relationships can often be just as critical to success. Voltaire’s quote subtly critiques how superficial traits, such as manners and social decorum, can sometimes outweigh more substantial qualities like knowledge or wisdom in achieving success.
A specific example of this principle can be seen in the workplace, where individuals with excellent interpersonal skills or a polished demeanor often advance, even if their technical skills are not superior to others. This is why people with strong networking abilities, charm, and social etiquette are often more successful in career advancement, despite not necessarily being the most qualified in terms of expertise. Voltaire’s words remind us that in many aspects of life, social grace and manners can play a crucial role in achieving success, sometimes even more so than pure intelligence.
