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A good man can be stupid and still be good. But a bad man…

“A good man can be stupid and still be good. But a bad man must have brains.” quote by Maxim Gorky
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“A good man can be stupid and still be good. But a bad man must have brains.”

Maxim Gorky

About This Quote

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

Goodness can exist despite lack of intelligence; badness requires intellect to cause harm.

In simple terms: Good people can be simple; bad people need cunning.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate kindness, not just cleverness.

Themes

morality intelligence evil

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • education
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

ethics human nature psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can a smart person be truly good?
  • Is stupidity an excuse for harm?
A Different Perspective

Intelligence alone doesn't guarantee virtue.

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