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About this quote

What does it mean?
Casanova argues that deceiving a fool is a form of avenging intelligence and is worth the effort. He frames trickery as a victory of intellect.
In plain terms
It is worth your time to outsmart a fool.
What can you take from it?
Intellect triumphs when it outwits ignorance.

Where it applies

  • conflict resolution
  • strategic thinking
  • self-defense

Putting it to work

  • use wit wisely
  • recognize manipulation
  • value intelligence

Questions to consider

  • Is deception ever justified?
  • How do you value intelligence?

Another view

Deception can be unethical even against a fool.

More from Giacomo Casanova

  1. [T]hose who do not love [life] are unworthy of it.

    Permalink to quote #29
  2. We avenge intellect when we dupe a fool, and it is a victory not to be despised[.]

    Permalink to quote #31
  3. [T]hey who do not love [life] do not deserve it.

    Permalink to quote #28

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