Gentlemen, let us suppose that man is not stupid. (Indeed…
“Gentlemen, let us suppose that man is not stupid. (Indeed one cannot refuse to suppose that, if only from the one consideration, that, if man is stupid, then who is wise?) But if he is not stupid, he is monstrously ungrateful! Phenomenally ungrateful. In fact, I believe that the best definition of man is the ungrateful biped.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Dostoevsky satirically claims that if humanity is not foolish, it is profoundly ungrateful, highlighting a paradox of human nature.
In simple terms: If humans aren't stupid, they're extremely ungrateful.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and curb ingratitude.
Themes
human nature
paradox
gratitude
philosophy
Mood
reflective
critical
ironic
Type
aphilosophical
satirical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- leadership
- team dynamics
- public policy
- education
Key Concepts
existentialism
morality
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives ungrateful behavior in competent individuals?
- How can societies foster gratitude?
A Different Perspective
Even intelligent people can be ungrateful; context matters.