Men Intellect Quote by Friedrich Schelling
““There is no greatness without a continual solicitation to madness which, while it must be overcome, must never be completely lacking. One might profit by classifying men in this respect. The one kind are those in whom there is no madness at all ... and are so-called men of intellect whose works and deeds are nothing but cold works and deeds of the intellect… But where there is no madness, there is, to be sure, also no real, active, living intellect. For wherein is intellect to prove itself but in the conquest, mastery, and ordering of madness?””
About This Quote
Source Book: Philosophical Investigations, Friedrich Schelling, 1809
Greatness requires a daring, restless drive that borders on madness; without it, intellect remains cold and inert.
In simple terms: Greatness needs a wild, daring edge.
Key Takeaway
Embrace controlled chaos to fuel creativity.
Themes
creativity
intellect
madness
greatness
Mood
intense
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- artistic creation
- scientific breakthroughs
- entrepreneurial risk
- personal growth
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
existentialism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance daring with stability?
- When does madness become harmful?
A Different Perspective
Madness can lead to self-destruction if unchecked.
