Ears Quote by Frederick Salomon Perls
“As Albert Einstein once said to me: "Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity." But what is much more widespread than the actual stupidity is the playing stupid, turning off your ear, not listening, not seeing.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Attributed quote, early 20th century
The quote highlights that both the cosmos and human folly are boundless, and that will to ignore reality is even more common than actual ignorance.
In simple terms: Infinity of the universe and human folly, plus widespread willful ignorance.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge willful ignorance.
Themes
ignorance
human nature
communication
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
observational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education
- leadership
- media consumption
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you confront willful ignorance in yourself?
- What strategies break the cycle of not listening?
A Different Perspective
Willful ignorance can be reinforced by echo chambers and social pressure.
![“Well the first time I performed, my mom was like how she is now when sees me on stage – all red, smiling from ear to ear. So I don’t want to mess up, [be]cause she’s smiling. Seeing my mom happy is kind of like an overwhelming feeling.” quote by Chris Brown](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/477/chris-brown-1887_causes_well-the-first-time-i-performed-my-mom-w_4699.jpg)
