Cognitive dissonance Quote by Jared C. Wilson
![“Dallas Willard explains: The world has succeeded in opposing intelligence to goodness. . . . And today any attempt to combine spirituality or moral purity with great intelligence causes widespread pangs of “cognitive dissonance.” [As with Jesus,] Mother Teresa . . . is thought of as . . . nice, of…” quote by Jared C. Wilson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/55b/jared-c-wilson-16055_cognitive-dissonance_dallas-willard-explains-the-world-has-su_387854.jpg)
““Dallas Willard explains: The world has succeeded in opposing intelligence to goodness. . . . And today any attempt to combine spirituality or moral purity with great intelligence causes widespread pangs of “cognitive dissonance.” [As with Jesus,] Mother Teresa . . . is thought of as . . . nice, of course, but not really smart. “Smart” means good at managing how life “really” is.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Spiritual Life of the Mind by Dallas Willard, 1998
Intelligence is often seen as opposed to moral goodness, creating inner conflict when trying to be both smart and virtuous.
In simple terms: Being smart and good feel contradictory, causing inner tension.
Key Takeaway
Accept that intelligence can serve goodness.
Themes
morality
intelligence
cognitive dissonance
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- leadership
- decision making
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you align intelligence with moral actions?
- What habits reduce cognitive dissonance?
A Different Perspective
Intelligence alone does not guarantee ethical behavior.
