“And not only the pride of intellect, but the stupidity of intellect. And, above all, the dishonesty, yes, the dishonesty of intellect. Yes, indeed, the dishonesty and trickery of intellect.”

Analysis

In this quote by Leo Tolstoy, the author emphasizes the negative aspects of intellect, including pride, stupidity, and dishonesty. Tolstoy suggests that intelligence can sometimes lead to arrogance and deceit, highlighting the dangers of using one's intellect in a dishonest or manipulative manner. This quote serves as a reminder to approach intellectual pursuits with humility and integrity, rather than allowing pride and dishonesty to cloud one's judgment.

The Deception of Intellectual Dishonesty

In today's society, Leo Tolstoy's words on the deception of intellect ring true more than ever. With the rise of fake news and misinformation, it is crucial to be aware of the dishonesty and trickery that can often cloud our judgment. The pride of intellect can blind us to alternate perspectives, leading to a narrow-minded approach to complex issues. It is important to remain vigilant and question the sources of information we encounter in order to combat intellectual dishonesty.

Leo Tolstoy on the Intellectual Dishonesty

"And not only the pride of intellect, but the stupidity of intellect. And, above all, the dishonesty, yes, the dishonesty of intellect. Yes, indeed, the dishonesty and trickery of intellect." - Leo Tolstoy

Reflection Questions

Reflecting on Leo Tolstoy's quote, consider the following questions:

• In what ways have you seen pride and dishonesty play a role in intellectual pursuits?
• How can one guard against the trap of intellectual dishonesty in their own thinking?
• What might be the consequences of intellectual trickery in personal relationships or society as a whole?