Anti-social behavior is a trait of intelligence in a world full of conformists.
Interpretation
This quote suggests that being anti-social or non-conforming can be a sign of high intelligence.
Nikola Tesla's quote reflects the idea that those who engage in anti-social behavior may possess a unique intelligence that sets them apart from the mainstream society. In a world that often values conformity, individuals who think differently and question societal norms are sometimes viewed as eccentric or anti-social, yet this divergence can signify a deeper intellect and creativity. Tesla himself was a brilliant inventor and thinker, often seen as an outsider, highlighting the potential value of independent thought in innovation and progress.
In practice
In a discussion about the importance of individual thought in innovation at a tech conference.
Even matter called inorganic, believed to be dead, responds to irritants and gives unmistakable evidence of a living principle within. Everything that exists, organic or inorganic, animated or inert, is susceptible to stimulus from the outside.
Our senses enable us to perceive only a minute portion of the outside world.
Every living being is an engine geared to the wheelwork of the universe. Though seemingly affected only by its immediate surrounding, the sphere of external influence extends to infinite distance.
The history of science shows that theories are perishable. With every new truth that is revealed we get a better understanding of Nature and our conceptions and views are modified.
The Secretary of Hygiene or Physical Culture will be far more important in the cabinet of the President of the United States who holds office in the year 2035 than the Secretary of War.
I am unwilling to accord to some small−minded and jealous individuals the satisfaction of having thwarted my efforts. These men are to me nothing more than microbes of a nasty disease. My project was retarded by laws of nature. The world was not prepared for it. It was too far ahead of time, but the same laws will prevail in the end and make it a triumphal success.
Americans, while occasionally willing to be serfs, have always been obstinate about being peasantry.
The soul is indestructible and its activity will continue through eternity. It is like the sun, which, to our eyes, seems to set at night; but it has in reality only gone to diffuse its light elsewhere.
The aim of the missionary is to do God's will, not to be useful, not to win the heathan; he is useful and does win the heathen, but that is not his aim. His aim is to do the will of his Lord.
What you do not wish upon yourself, extend not to others.
[about tabloid magazines] Just because you read it in a magazine or see it on a TV screen doesn't make it factual. To buy it is to feed it.
Boundary, n. In political geography, an imaginary line between two nations, separating the imaginary rights of one from the imaginary rights of another.
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