'The third-rate mind is only happy when it is thinking with the majority. The second-rate mind is only happy when it is thinking with the minority. The first-rate mind is only happy when it is thinking.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- True intelligence values independent thought over aligning with either majority or minority opinions.
- In plain terms
- Smart people think for themselves, not just to agree with crowds.
- What can you take from it?
- Prioritize your own thinking over fitting in.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you often think just to fit in?
- What stops you from thinking independently?
Another view
Sometimes agreeing with the group is necessary for social cohesion.
More from A. A. Milne
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