Army Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“What is called common sense is excellent in its department, and as invaluable as the virtue of conformity in the army and navy,--for there must be subordination,--but uncommon sense, that sense which is common only to the wisest, is as much more excellent as it is more rare.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "Common Sense and Uncommon Sense" by Henry David Thoreau
Common sense is useful for conformity; uncommon sense, rare and wiser, is more valuable despite being less common.
In simple terms: Rare wisdom surpasses ordinary conformity.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate uncommon sense for deeper insight.
Themes
wisdom
conformity
rarity
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- leadership
- education
- policy making
Key Concepts
critical thinking
independence
ethical judgment
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you challenged a norm with uncommon sense?
- What risks accompany valuing rare insight?
A Different Perspective
Uncommon sense may clash with established norms.
![“Part of [having uncommon sense] is being able to tune out folly, as opposed to recognizing wisdom. If you bat away many things, you don't clutter yourself.” quote by Charlie Munger](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c7d/charlie-munger-458_able_part-of-having-uncommon-sense-is-being-a_575539.jpg)
![“I can't imagine that I would be asked that by the president-elect [Donald Trump], or then-president [Barack Obama]. But it's - I'm very clear. I voted for the change that put the Army Field Manual in place as a member of Congress. I understand that law very, very quickly and am also deeply aware…” quote by James Mattis](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/761/james-mattis-9515_army_i-can-t-imagine-that-i-would-be-asked-th_3990.jpg)
