I will follow my logic, no matter where it goes, after it has consulted with my heart. If you ever come to a conclusion without calling the heart in, you will come to a bad conclusion.
Robert Green IngersollRead
In the republic of mediocrity, genius is dangerous.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that extraordinary talent or brilliance can be threatening in a society that values average or mediocre achievements.
Robert Green Ingersoll's quote reflects the idea that societies which prioritize mediocrity may view exceptional individuals as a threat to the status quo. Genius and innovation often challenge traditional norms and provoke fear among those who prefer comfort in conformity, highlighting the tension between extraordinary capabilities and societal acceptance.
Themes
GeniusMediocrityDangerSocietyInnovationAverage
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on creativity, the speaker quoted Ingersoll to illustrate the dangers of conformity in creative industries.
More from Robert Green Ingersoll
All quotes βIf the guardians of society, the protectors of 'young persons,' could have had their way, we should have known nothing of Byron or Shelley. The voices that thrill the world would now be silent.
Robert Green IngersollRead
The religion that has to be supported by law is without value, not only, but a fraud and a curse. The religious argument that has to be supported by a musket is hardly worth making.
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There is no slavery but ignorance.
Robert Green IngersollRead
In all ages the people have honored those who dishonored them. They have worshiped their destroyers; they have canonized the most gigantic liars, and buried the great thieves in marble and gold. Under the loftiest monuments sleeps the dust of murder.
Robert Green IngersollRead
I believe that there is something far nobler than loyalty to any particular man. Loyalty to the truth as we perceive it - loyalty to our duty as we know it - loyalty to the ideals of our brain and heart - is, to my mind, far greater and far nobler than loyalty to the life of any particular man or God. . . .
Robert Green IngersollRead
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