Anti-intellectual Quote by Thomas Mann
““But a man of tender sensitivities finds disruption unpleasant; he finds it unpleasant to break in on a well-constructed train of thought with his own logical or historical objections culled from memory, and even in the anti-intellectual he will honor and respect the intellect. Today we can see clearly enough that it was the mistake of our civilization to have been all too generous in exercising such forbearance and respect—since on the opposing side we were indeed dealing with naked insolence and the most determined intolerance.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Magic Mountain, 1924
Intellectuals may resist disruption, yet excessive tolerance can enable arrogance and intolerance, demanding balanced critique.
In simple terms: Too much tolerance can breed arrogance.
Key Takeaway
Balance respect with critical scrutiny.
Themes
intellectual humility
critique
tolerance
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- academic debates
- political discourse
- media commentary
Key Concepts
philosophy
social dynamics
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- When should we challenge respected ideas?
- How to distinguish healthy debate from disrespect?
A Different Perspective
Blind respect may stifle progress.
