Civilized Quote by Saul Bellow Herzog
““There is something funny about the human condition, and civilized intelligence makes fun of its own ideas.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Humboldt's Gift by Saul Bellow, 1975
Human nature is absurd, and our intellect often mocks its own contradictions.
In simple terms: Human condition is funny and self‑mocking.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and laugh at our own contradictions.
Themes
human condition
humor
intelligence
Mood
thoughtful
ironic
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- daily life
- debates
- creative work
Key Concepts
philosophy
self‑awareness
irony
Questions to Reflect On
- What contradictions do you notice in yourself?
- How does humor help you cope?
A Different Perspective
Intellectual humor can alienate others.
![“That country [Carthage] was rapidly sinking into the state of barbarism from whence it had been raised by the Phoenician colonies and Roman laws; and every step of intestine discord was marked by some deplorable victory of savage man over civilized society.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/70c/edward-gibbon-710_barbarism_that-country-carthage-was-rapidly-sinkin_393.jpg)
