Clever Quote by Thomas Sowell
“It may be expecting too much to expect most intellectuals to have common sense, when their whole life is based on their being uncommon -- that is, saying things that are different from what everyone else is saying. There is only so much genuine originality in anyone. After that, being uncommon means indulging in pointless eccentricities or clever attempts to mock or shock.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Basic Economics, Thomas Sowell, 2000
Intellectuals often lack common sense because they prioritize uniqueness over practicality, leading to unnecessary eccentricities.
In simple terms: Intellectuals may be unique but not practical.
Key Takeaway
Balance originality with practicality.
Themes
intellectualism
originality
common sense
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic discourse
- policy making
- creative work
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
social conformity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you ensure your ideas remain useful?
- When does uniqueness hinder communication?
A Different Perspective
Originality without purpose can become counterproductive.
![“There was another reason [she] took her books whenever they went away. They were her home when she was somewhere strange. They were familiar voices, friends that never quarreled with her, clever, powerful friends -- daring and knowledgeable, tried and tested adventurers who had traveled far and…” quote by Cornelia Funke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/639/cornelia-funke-908_adventurer_there-was-another-reason-she-took-her-bo_3074.jpg)
