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It takes something more than intelligence to act intelligently.
Fyodor Dostoevsky
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Interpretation

What this quote means

True intelligence involves more than just knowledge; it requires thoughtfulness and intention in action.

This quote by Fyodor Dostoevsky emphasizes the idea that acting intelligently is not solely a product of having knowledge or intelligence. Instead, it suggests that wisdom and the ability to apply intelligence thoughtfully and responsibly are essential for meaningful action. It highlights the importance of emotional understanding and ethical considerations in making decisions.

Themes

IntelligenceActionWisdomThoughtfulnessResponsibility

In practice

Example use cases

During a leadership seminar emphasizing decision-making, one could quote Dostoevsky to highlight the need for thoughtful action.

More from Fyodor Dostoevsky

Pain and suffering are always inevitable for a large intelligence and a deep heart. The really great men must, I think, have great sadness on earth.
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Love the animals, love the plants, love everything. If you love everything, you will perceive the divine mystery in things. Once you perceive it, you will begin to comprehend it better every day. And you will come at last to love the whole world with an all-embracing love.
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But do you understand, I cry to him, do you understand that if you have the guillotine in the forefront, and with such glee, it's for the sole reason that cutting heads off is the easiest thing, and having an idea is difficult!
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...to return to their 'native soil,' as they say, to the bosom, so to speak, of their mother earth, like frightened children, yearning to fall asleep on the withered bosom of their decrepit mother, and to sleep there for ever, only to escape the horrors that terrify them.
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