Why you should pretend to be an idiot, according to Schopenhauer.
To play the fool, is the last resort in order to cover the defects of others.
You’ve acted like an idiot in public, but I’m not just talking about mistakes. I’m talking about intentionally playing dumb. For Arthur Schopenhauer, one of the most influential philosophers of the 19th century, the art of acting foolishly, was not only a means of entertainment, but also a powerful way of critiquing the absurdities of human existence. But what makes playing the fool such a captivating and challenging pursuit?
As we explore Schopenhauer’s ideas, we’ll reveal how being underestimated can sometimes work in your favor. We’ll discuss why he believes that playing the fool might be one of the smartest ways to navigate life. To better understand his views on this topic, we should first explore his insights into the human tendency to obsess over the opinions of others.
Schopenhauer observed that we often feel the need to present an image of superior intelligence, fearing the stigma of being perceived as foolish. This compulsive desire to preserve our reputation and garner the admiration of others is a peculiar weakness of human nature. As the philosopher noted in his work The Wisdom of Life, he wrote:
By a peculiar weakness of human nature, people generally think too much about the opinions which others form of them, although the slightest reflection will show that this opinion, whatever it may be, is not in itself essential to happiness.
Most of the time, we can’t help but care about what others think. We don’t want to be seen as dumb. But when we focus too much on others’ opinions, we may lose sight of what truly benefits us.
Sometimes, it actually helps when people don’t hold us in high regard. Being perceived as stupid can be better for our well-being than being seen as intelligent.
To enjoy the benefits of being stupid, we must be willing to be seen as foolish to get ahead.
Schopenhauer’s mother once wrote him a letter when he was 19 years old, criticizing his need to know everything better than others. She pointed out that his super cleverness was useless to the world, and that his good qualities were obscured by his constant desire to improve and master things he couldn’t fully command.
This letter sheds light on Schopenhauer’s struggles with intellectual superiority, which later influenced his philosophical reflections. He believed that being proud of one’s intellectual ability could put them on a higher plane of existence, above the masses. However, he recognized the potential for envy and resentment that could arise from such superiority.
When a person of great intellect is forced to mingle in polite company, the best thing to do, according to Schopenhauer, is to play dumb.
You will learn this in your workplace. Never ever make your trainer or boss feel like they’re dumber, less effective, less organized whatever than you.
Schopenhauer emphasized the value of playing dumb strategically, not out of genuine ignorance but as a means of navigating human relationships more effectively.
By assuming the role of a fool, one can divert attention away from the flaws or shortcomings of others, allowing them to save face. Schopenhauer believed that sometimes, being a little bit foolish can help smooth over tough social situations and make things more harmonious.
Basically, the reason why it pays so well to play dumb, is because intelligence in other people rouses a great feeling of resentment and envy.
In the end, Schopenhauer makes a compelling case for embracing the unexpected value of playing the fool at times. While society prizes intelligence, sometimes acting a bit clueless can actually help keep the peace and navigate social dynamics effectively.
