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About this quote

What does it mean?
A smart idiot is preferable to a stupid genius.
In plain terms
It's better to have someone simple but clever than someone brilliant but foolish.
What can you take from it?
Value practical intelligence over raw talent.

Where it applies

  • in hiring
  • in teamwork

Putting it to work

  • seek reliable problem‑solvers
  • avoid over‑reliance on ego

Questions to consider

  • What defines a 'smart idiot'?
  • When does brilliance outweigh practicality?

Another view

Genius can still produce valuable results despite flaws.

More from Samuel Goldwyn

  1. It's absolutely impossible, but it has possibilities.

    Permalink to quote #19

  2. Never make forecasts, especially about the future.

    Permalink to quote #17

  3. Every director bites the hand that lays the golden egg.

    Permalink to quote #20

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