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It startled him even more when just after he was awarded…

“It startled him even more when just after he was awarded the Galactic Institute's Prize for Extreme Cleverness he got lynched by a rampaging mob of respectable physicists who had finally realized that the one thing they really couldn't stand was a smartass.” quote by Douglas Adams
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““It startled him even more when just after he was awarded the Galactic Institute's Prize for Extreme Cleverness he got lynched by a rampaging mob of respectable physicists who had finally realized that the one thing they really couldn't stand was a smartass.””

Douglas Adams

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A brilliant but arrogant individual is punished by peers who cannot tolerate his smugness, highlighting the social risk of overconfidence.

In simple terms: Being too clever can provoke backlash from others.

Key Takeaway

Watch humility and avoid flaunting intelligence.

Themes

humility social dynamics intellectual arrogance

Mood

wry satirical cautious

Type

humorous critical observational

When to use this quote

  • academic settings
  • online forums
  • corporate meetings
  • political debates

Key Concepts

pride group conformity social punishment

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you ever tone down your expertise?
  • How can you balance confidence with humility?
A Different Perspective

The quote exaggerates for humor; real-life reactions may be less extreme.

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