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Very often among a certain highly intelligent type of…

“Very often among a certain highly intelligent type of people, quite paradoxical ideas will establish themselves. But they have suffered so much in their lives for these ideas, and have paid so high a price for them that it becomes very painful, indeed almost impossible, for them to part with them.” quote by Fyodor Dostoyevsky
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““Very often among a certain highly intelligent type of people, quite paradoxical ideas will establish themselves. But they have suffered so much in their lives for these ideas, and have paid so high a price for them that it becomes very painful, indeed almost impossible, for them to part with them.””

Fyodor Dostoyevsky

About This Quote

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

Highly intelligent people cling to painful ideas because they’ve invested heavily, making it hard to abandon them.

In simple terms: Ideas become painful to let go of.

Key Takeaway

Question deeply held beliefs.

Themes

psychology intelligence attachment

Mood

thoughtful melancholic

Type

philosophical psychological

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • philosophical debate
  • therapy

Key Concepts

cognitive dissonance identity formation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we cling to painful ideas?
  • How can we let go?
A Different Perspective

Some ideas may be harmful yet persist.

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