In our civilization, and under our republican form of government, intelligence is so highly honored that it is rewarded by exemption from the cares of office.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Bierce satirizes government by suggesting smart people are rewarded with inaction.
- In plain terms
- Smart people get praised but don't actually do any work.
- What can you take from it?
- Prestige does not always mean real contribution.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does intelligence guarantee effective leadership?
- What rewards should society give to thinkers?
Another view
It dismisses the value of advisory roles in government.
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