the fool speaks the wise man listens essay

Essay on “The fool speaks, and the wise listen”

The old saying that “the idiot talks, and the wise listen” is a timeless reminder of the significance of listening as well as the risks associated with speaking too quickly or too much. This proverb emphasises the importance of being a good listener as well as recognising the worth of other people’s perspectives and life experiences. It serves as a reminder that often the most significant teachings come from individuals who are not normally thought of as experts, and that there is frequently much to be learned from those who are located in our immediate environment, regardless of their position in life.

Listening gives us the opportunity to learn new points of view and deepen our comprehension of the world around us, which is one of the primary reasons for the significance of this activity. When we listen to other people, we are presented with a variety of viewpoints, experiences, and insights, all of which have the potential to challenge our own perspectives and widen our horizons. This may be especially helpful when we are dealing with difficult or contentious problems, as it can enable us to view the subject from a variety of perspectives and gain an understanding of the reasons and rationale that lie behind the beliefs of others.

Listening is one of the most crucial tools for creating connections as well as collaboration among individuals. When we indicate to people that we respect them and are interested in what they have to say by listening to what they have to say, this may assist to create trust and make communication easier. This is of utmost significance in professional contexts, where clear and concise communication is essential to the successful accomplishment of objectives and the functioning of a cohesive team. By engaging in attentive listening, we may strengthen our connections with our coworkers, clients, and partners, as well as improve the efficiency with which we collaborate.

Listening is extremely essential for a number of reasons, one of which is that it enables us to see and handle possible difficulties before they ever become problems. When we pay attention to what other people have to say, we could pick up on certain warning signs or red flags that indicate there might be a problem. This may be especially helpful in the workplace, where the early identification of problems can assist us in solving them before they worsen and do more damage to the organisation. By maintaining an attitude of active listening, we can remain one step ahead of the curve and take preventative measures to address possible difficulties before they balloon into serious concerns.

However, listening is not always an easy task, and there is sometimes the temptation to disregard the viewpoints of others or to disregard what we have heard. This might be especially true when we have strong feelings about a topic or assume that we already know all of the solutions to the questions about that topic. In these kinds of circumstances, it is essential to keep in mind the significance of active listening and to make a concerted effort to set aside our own preconceptions and points of view in order to give full attention to what other people have to say.

The proverb “the idiot talks, and the wise listen” is another example of a proverb that emphasises the need of speaking intelligently. While it is crucial to communicate, it is equally as important to be careful of both the content of our words and the manner in which we deliver them. It is possible for us to inflict hurt and destroy relationships when we talk hastily or without giving consideration to the ramifications of our words. If we choose our words carefully, we can ensure that they have a constructive effect, which will assist in the development of relationships and the resolution of disagreements.

This is especially essential in professional situations, where the words we choose to use may have a tremendous influence not just on our own careers but also on the performance of the businesses we work for. When we choose our words carefully, we are able to convey our intellect, expertise, and professionalism to others, and we also contribute to establishing a reputation for being an authority in our industry. On the other hand, if we talk rashly or without giving our words much thought, we run the risk of damaging both our reputation and the professional ties we have.

To summarise, the proverb “the idiot talks, and the wise listen” serves as a timely reminder of the significance of both listening attentively and speaking intelligently. The ability to listen is a crucial asset that may be used to obtain fresh views, create connections, and tackle potential difficulties before they become problems. Our comprehension of the world may be expanded, and our ability to collaborate with individuals in our immediate environment can be improved, if we are attentive listeners. In the meanwhile, using our words correctly may help us make a favourable impression on others and enhance our image as a knowledgeable and professional people. We may improve our ability to communicate effectively and achieve more success in both our personal and professional lives if we place a high value on both listening and speaking.

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 The Fool Speaks, And The Wise Listen

• Miscellaneous
• Aug 20, 2023
• Noshin Bashir

The phrase “The fool speaks, and the wise listen” encapsulates the idea that even in the words of those who might be considered foolish or unwise, there could be hidden insights or lessons that wise individuals can extract. It suggests that wisdom involves being open-minded and attentive to different perspectives, regardless of the source.

Somehow, the phrase encourages humility, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn from diverse perspectives. It implies that wisdom is not confined to a particular group of people and that even those who may not appear knowledgeable at first glance might have something meaningful to contribute.

The phrase reminds us that everyone has a unique perspective to offer, regardless of their level of knowledge or intelligence. It encourages humility by suggesting that dismissing someone as a “fool” based solely on initial judgments might prevent us from benefiting from their insights. As wisdom is not confined to a select group of people. The phrase suggests that even those who are not traditionally considered wise may have moments of clarity or unique insights that can be valuable.

Being open-minded means being willing to consider diverse viewpoints and ideas. The wise person recognizes that knowledge and insight can come from unexpected sources and is willing to engage with those sources rather than dismissing them outright.

Moreover, the “fool” in this context might refer to someone who has made mistakes or lacks understanding in certain areas. By listening to their words, the wise person might gain insights into potential pitfalls, allowing them to learn from the mistakes of others. The phrase quintessentially says that encouraging people to speak—even those who might not be considered wise—fosters communication and the exchange of ideas. This exchange can lead to deeper understanding and the refinement of one’s own perspectives. It implies a balance between skepticism and openness, where one evaluates the words of others thoughtfully rather than rejecting them outright.

Besides, the concept of listening to the fool also promotes empathy. It encourages us to consider the circumstances, experiences, and perspectives that might have led someone to their viewpoint, even if it seems uninformed. Apart from that, engaging with diverse perspectives, even those considered foolish, can stimulate intellectual growth. It challenges one’s own assumptions, encourages critical thinking, and prompts the exploration of new ideas.

In essence, “The fool speaks, and the wise listen” underscores the value of understanding, empathy, and open-mindedness. It serves as a reminder that everyone has something to offer, and wisdom can emerge from the most unexpected sources. By embracing this philosophy, we can enrich our own understanding and contribute to more meaningful and inclusive conversations.

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The fool speaks, the wise man listens.

• Post author: Heather
• Post published: June 4, 2021
• Post category: Quotes
• Reading time: 3 mins read

Fools often can’t stop themselves from stating their opinions and telling anyone and everyone who will listen just what they think. A wise man on the other hand, is more interested in hearing what others have to say. He knows he will learn something new, or he just likes to take in all the information and draw his own conclusions silently. He knows that he will learn more about a situation listening rather than talking. He has no need to spout out wisdom or opinions so that others will notice him.

Sometimes we get so caught up in the moment, we don’t listen to others as well as we’d like to. Here are some tips on how you can become a better listener.

1.) Be present with who you are listening to. The best gift you can ever give someone else is your time and attention. Really be present in the conversation. Make eye contact. Connect with them and what they are saying. Eliminate distractions like your phone.

2.) Listen to learn. Sometimes we listen to someone and as they are talking, we think we have things figured out. Think of each conversation as a place where you can learn something. Take in information rather than commenting on everything that is said.

3.) Don’t wait to talk. Are you really listening or are you really waiting to talk? The fool waits to talk. Don’t be a fool. When you are waiting to talk, the person with you can sense it. Choose to show how good of a friend you are by being present and not just waiting to talk.

4.) Choose your response thoughtfully. When you slow things down and listen more, you can form better responses that are well thought out. You are basing your response on having gathered more information, so you are coming from a better place to contribute to the conversation.

Your turn…Do you actively listen or do you wait to talk?

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The Pastoral Implications of Wise and Foolish Speech in the Book of Proverbs

More By Eric Ortlund

This article is written in love and admiration for pastors in North America. It is also written in brotherly concern because pastors in our culture are frequently subjected to gossip, slander, and malicious speech. You probably do not have to attend church meetings for very long before witnessing this for yourself. I remember speaking with a friend who attended a church meeting that quickly turned ugly. His comment to me, as a new Christian, was, “My honeymoon in the church was over.” I doubt any of my readers will have trouble imagining what that meeting was like for my friend. While this is naturally a problem for any church in any age, certain tendencies in our culture make it an especially glaring one—and the Internet only makes things worse. I would like to think through the issue of foolish speech in a pastoral context by turning to the book of Proverbs because this book contains rich resources for both understanding and interpreting the roots of foolish speech and responding to it in a faithful way.

I would like to argue that, in the book of Proverbs, one cannot argue with a fool without making things worse. The wise person instead trusts the Lord to intervene by silencing and stopping foolish speech and vindicating those who trust him. I realize this conclusion may seem extreme. In order to recommend it, this article briefly sketches how the major characters in Proverbs speak and examines how the wise respond (or do not respond) to foolish speech. Then it turn to the NT, focusing on Paul’s directions to how Timothy and Titus should speak in different situations, as well as Paul’s presentation of Christ as the wisdom of God in 1 Cor 1. The essay closes by applying the wise speech of Proverbs to everyday-ministry settings.

1. Major Characters in Proverbs: The Simple, the Fool, and the Wise Man

The first major character in Proverbs is the simpleton, most often identified with the son or the youth in the book. The book of Proverbs portrays a pious Israelite father, guided by Solomon, teaching his son how to engage successfully in the complex adventure called “life.” The son or youth is classified as “simple” (פֶּתִי) in the sense of being naïve about how life works and easily fooled (see Prov 1:4). While not morally wrong in itself, the youth’s simplicity is dangerous because it is susceptible to influence from either wisdom or folly (9:4-6, 16). If not left behind, the youth will suffer the most terrifying consequences (1:22, 31). Although more could be said about this character, it turns out that the simple youth does not have much to say in Proverbs—he is rather called on to listen quietly to the wise instruction of the father.

For this reason, we turn to the two other major characters in the book: the righteous-wise and the wicked-fool. [1] In making this distinction, I am not ignoring how Proverbs uses a number of words are for different kinds of people. For instance, לֵץ (“scoffer”) seems to denote a hardened cynic for whom there is the least hope of change. [2] Nevertheless, it is fair to make a broad distinction between two basic kinds of people in Proverbs: the righteous and the wicked, the wise and the foolish. The entire book of Proverbs is an appeal to the son to leave behind his simplicity and join the ranks of the righteous-wise by describing the life (and especially the speech) of these people and the blessed consequences that meet them under YHWH’s hand. [3]

The righteous-wise can be defined, first, as those who “do right by” God and neighbor (1:3, 2:9, 12:17, 21:21, etc.). They discharge all relational obligations, doing what is right in the complex junctures to which every relationship is subject. This righteousness should not be understood only in the sense of fairness or balance, but more extremely as going “over the top” to do as much as possible to enhance the life of one’s neighbor. “The righteous are willing to disadvantage themselves to advantage the community; the wicked are willing to disadvantage the community to advantage themselves.” [4] Second, this category of people are “wise” in the sense of being skilled at engaging with the complex order God has set up in creation, and especially in relationships (1:2-7). This category of people is consistently portrayed as morally upright and insightful about how life and relationships work.

By contrast, the wicked-fool privileges self over neighbor. His wickedness consists in working for his own advantage to the detriment of others. His folly is similarly seen in the lack of skill with which he lives, despite the disastrous consequences to himself and others. Furthermore, this type of person consistently refuses to listen to instruction or rebuke or advice. The fool is someone who is incorrigibly certain he knows how life works, no matter how he is warned (1:7, 22; 12:15, 15:5). They are the ones who are wise in their own eyes (3:5-8). In contrast, the wise are receptive, open, and listening to wisdom (1:7-8, 2:1-4, 10:8, etc.), even loving rebuke (9:8).

How do these two groups of people talk? Proverbs spends no small amount of space portraying wise and foolish speech.

2. Foolish Speech in Proverbs

We can broadly summarize foolish speech in two ways.

2.1. Constant First, there is a lot of it: the fool is always talking. Instead of pondering how he should answer, his mouth pours forth wicked things (Prov 15:28; cf. 15:2). He answers before he listens (18:13). He gets involved in arguments not his own (26:17). This kind of person is completely unrestrained: cross him and he explodes (12:16; 29:11). He cannot keep another’s secret (11:13; 12:23). He abuses people he dislikes (11:12) [5] and criticizes them to others (10:18). Instead of keeping quiet, his rash words are sword-thrusts (12:18) that spark arguments with others (15:18).

The first-time reader of Proverbs might conclude at this point that people who are naturally outgoing and talkative are closer to folly than those with a quieter personality. Proverbs does contain some sober warnings about talking a lot: “in many words, sin is not lacking” (10:19); “the one guarding his lips guards his life” (13:3). But the biblical portrayal of the fool’s unrestrained speech locates its source elsewhere: the fool talks so much because he is someone who has to be right. He will not stop arguing (20:3). If you get into an argument with the fool, instead of giving you the benefit of the doubt and working with you toward a resolution, “he only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet” (29:9). From the very first chapter of Proverbs, gaining wisdom means listening to those wiser than you; one cannot become wise without being receptive. An essential characteristic of the fool is that he will not do so, instead despising יסר, “fatherly instruction” (1:7, 5:23, 10:17, 12:1, 13:1; cf. also the understatement for effect in 15:12). Refusing to accept instruction in how life works, the fool is interested only in airing his own opinion (18:2).

And there is a sense in which the fool cannot accept such instruction. The fool’s unwise speech is constitutional: he does not know how to say anything else. The mouths of the wicked know only what is perverse (10:32); when a fool decides to instruct someone, all he can dispense is more folly (16:22). Truths that would otherwise help others dangle like crippled legs in his mouth (26:7; cf. 1:22, 23; 13:19; 17:10; 24:7; 27:22).

Continue reading at  Themelios ,  an international evangelical theological journal that expounds and defends the historic Christian faith. It is published three times per year by The Gospel Coalition.

[1] I use hyphenated terms for these two groups because Proverbs refers to righteousness (צְדָקָה) and wickedness (רֶשַׁע) almost as frequently as it does to wisdom and folly; the book cannot invoke wisdom terms without also referring to moral ones. For instance, Proverbs uses the חכם root (“be wise”) 55 times, while it refers to the צָדִּיק (“the righteous”) 66 times. Similarly, the two most common words for “fool,” אְֶוִיל and כְּסִיל, combine to occur 76 times (27 and 49 times, respectively), while the רשׁע root (“be wicked”) occurs 83 times. While “righteousness” and “wisdom” are not synonymous (nor are “wickedness” and “foolishness”), in Proverbs, one cannot be wise without being righteous, and vice-versa. For this reason, I will refer sometimes to “the righteous-wise” and sometimes just “the wise,” but the same group of people is intended by both designations. The same is true of “the wicked-fools” and “fools.”

[2] See Bruce Waltke, Proverbs 1-15 (NICOT; Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2004), 93-116, and Michael Fox, Proverbs 1-9 (AB 18A; New Haven: Yale University Press, 2000), 28-43, for an extremely helpful discussions of the nuances of different terms used for wisdom and folly.

[3] In speaking this way, of course, I am taking a book that was edited in several stages as a coherent, unified whole (for indications of redactional layers, see 25:1; 30:1; and 31:1; recall also the connection between the Instruction of Amenemope and Prov 22:17-23:11). Doing so is unproblematic in my opinion, for whatever differences one might detect in different parts of the book, no one editorial layer contradicts or criticizes the whole. A consistency in the book is unmistakable even within the diversity of thought that wisdom literature allowed and perhaps even encouraged.

[4] Waltke, Proverbs 1-15 , 97.

[5] When the second clause of this verse says that the man of understanding keeps silent, it implies that the third party in question is not worthy of praise. In other words, the fool who despises his companion is not necessarily saying false things. His folly consists in speaking when he should keep quiet.

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Eric Ortlund is husband to Erin and father to Kate and Will. He studied Old Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and New College in Edinburgh and currently serves as associate professor of Old Testament at Briercrest College and Seminary in Caronport, Saskatchewan, in Canada. He blogs regularly at Scatterings .

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The Fool Speaks, and the Wise Listen.

• Hamail Syed
• December 2, 2023
• Daily Write-Ups , Featured

The following article, “ The Fool Speaks, and the Wise Listen. ” is written by Hamail Syed , a student of Sir Syed Kazim Ali . Moreover, the article is written on the same pattern, taught by Sir to his students, scoring the highest marks in compulsory subjects for years. Sir Kazim has uploaded his students’ solved past paper questions so other thousands of aspirants can understand how to crack a topic or question, how to write relevantly, what coherence is, and how to include and connect ideas, opinions, and suggestions to score the maximum.

1- Introduction

2- Debunking the African Proverb: The Fool Speaks, and the Wise Listen

3- Why does a fool speak excessively?

• ✓ Pride in his knowledge
• ✓ Desire for attention and recognition

4- Why does a wise person listen more than speak?

• ✓ Acceptance of possessing less information
• ✓ The concept of a life-long learning process

5- What consequences does a fool incur due to his talkative nature?

• ✓ Loss of respect
• ✓ Rise in evildoings

6- What rewards does an intelligent person reap due to his listening practice?

• ✓ Enhancement of wisdom
• ✓ Increase in respect

7- Critical analysis: Are all talkative people foolish and silent people wise?

• ✓Counterargument: People who are good at talking display good leadership qualities, and silence shows rudeness and lack of interest if one only listens to someone speaking at length.
• ✓Refutation: Excess of everything is wrong; therefore, the speaker and the listener should not dominate over the other to reap the fruits of respect and peace.

8- Conclusion

Answer to the Question

Introduction.

Words are the most potent drugs that humankind wields. They either make one attain high respect or incur embarrassment in society. However, a better listening habit and a lessened speaking tendency help a wise person enhance his wisdom and acquire a high place in the community of nobles. On the other hand, a fool who speaks excessively to dominate conversations and attract people lands nowhere in the family of shrewd people. Owing to his arrogance, the fool loses his respect and gets involved in sins, such as backbiting, lying, etc. Nevertheless, wisdom and honour are bestowed upon those who prefer listening over speaking. A wise person knows that sagacity lies in listening to catch ideas, perspectives, and experiences shared by others. Consequently, wise people talk less, making them earn respect and avoid unnecessary arguments. Thus, the above facts underscore the maxim “The fool speaks, and the wise listen.”

Debunking the African Proverb: The Fool Speaks, and the Wise Listen

The given statement is an African proverb, which indicates that talking recklessly is the work of stupid people who try their best to answer all queries despite insufficient information. This action deprives them of learning and leads to a loss of respect in society. On the other hand, the quotation further elaborates that loving to listen is a quality of intellectuals. Listening adds beauty to one’s personality and allows one to benefit from others’ insights, ideas, and experiences. Thus, the maxim accurately narrates that silence enhances cleverness while garrulousness reveals one’s foolishness.

Why does a fool speak excessively?

After debunking the maxim, it is important to understand the reason behind the excessive speech of a fool.

Pride in his knowledge

First, a fool’s arrogance over knowledge is the foremost cause behind his unwise character. His pride in his knowledge makes him believe that what he knows is sufficient to solve all the world’s mysteries. Therefore, he tries to dominate conversations, interrupt others, and not let others share his viewpoints. The fact can be well illustrated by the quote by Pythagoras, “A fool is known by his speech, and a wise man by silence.” The statement also sheds light on the fool’s overconfidence. Thus, the aforementioned fact supports the argument that the ego of the unwise makes him speak excessively.

The desire for attention and recognition

Second, the desire for attention and recognition is also one of the factors leading a foolish person to speak aimlessly. He believes his talkative behaviour will catch others’ attention and leave a good impression on them. So, he talks haphazardly and doesn’t let anyone contribute their perspectives to the dialogue . The statement can well be supported by a renowned quote from Plato, “The wise speak because they have something to say; fools speak because they have to say something.” The quote alludes to the idea that those lacking knowledge speak excessively to seek attention. Hence, the fact beautifully supports the argument that a fool becomes chatty to receive recognition.

Why does a wise person listen more than speak?

After throwing light on the causes that make a fool speak a lot, discussing some benefits of speaking less is vital, which a wise person avails of himself.

Acceptance of possessing less information

Furthermore, a clever person always considers his information insufficient to answer the vast extent of human understanding. The acknowledgement urges him not to contribute his inadequate opinion. A wise person understands that speaking without solid information may lead others to misinformation and flawed perspectives. By admitting the limitations, a wise person listens more to acquire knowledge from others . The famous line, “The wise know nothing; only a fool keeps the information about everything,” beautifully supports the argument that a smart person speaks less as he may not share unauthentic information . Hence, a clever guy’s silence becomes a gateway to absorbing wisdom and increasing his treasure of knowledge.

The concept of a life-long learning process

In addition to this, the wise wholeheartedly embrace the concept of a lifelong learning process. He acknowledges that acquiring knowledge is an unending journey beyond a single lifetime. By actively listening and speaking less, a cunning person participates in learning. Moreover, he eagerly absorbs insights, experiences, and wisdom shared by others, making him value the diverse perspectives and knowledge that different individuals bring. According to a study conducted by the Harvard Business Review, effective leaders are considered to be apt to listen actively and speak less during group discussions. Moreover, the research has encouraged open dialogue, helping team members to share diverse ideas and insights. Hence, the study underscores the importance of an intellect’s tendency to speak less and listen more.

What consequences does a fool incur due to his talkative nature?

Before highlighting the rewards of speaking less, as reaped by the wise, it is essential to discuss the consequences of speaking excessively.

Loss of respect

To begin with, a babbling tongue makes a man suffer the worst of thorns throughout his life. By robbing and shattering all kinds of reputations, it deprives a person of his respect. Furthermore, speaking often causes a man to make inappropriate comments and monopolize discussions that hurt others’ feelings . The quote from Abraham Lincoln says, “The less you say, the more weight your words will carry.” This supports the argument that the talkative guy loses respect due to his haphazard speech, verifying that a talkative person loses respect in society.

Rise in evildoings

Likewise, a fool gets involved in evil deeds due to his talkative personality. The tendency makes him part of gossiping, backbiting, lying, and shouting. He sometimes even shatters one’s feelings into pieces due to his excessive talk. Also, fluency does not make him realize his mistakes. Besides, the notable line “the more one speaks, the more are his chances to be involved in sins” supports the fact well. It justifies that a stupid person should keep silent rather than talk excessively. Thus, the paragraph underscores the argument that a thoughtless person commits wrongdoings due to excessive speech.

What rewards does an intelligent person reap due to his listening practice? 

After discussing the drawbacks of garrulousness, it is vital to shed some light on the rewards that a wise person earns when he speaks less and listens more.

Enhancement of wisdom

First, keeping silent and paying heed to listening benefits one’s insight to a large extent. It unlocks one’s ideas and teaches the right way to ponder the mysteries of life. The argument can be well supported by the fact that  the more one listens, the more one learns, and the greater one understands the world. The statement proceeds with the argument that one boosts one’s wisdom by paying heed to the viewpoints of others. 

Increase in respect

Next, the community of nobles rewards a wise person with highly appreciative behaviour. His listening habit significantly helps him have an attractive and influential personality. Without a shadow of a doubt, one who utters less and listens more often shows humility and respect towards others. Consequently, people, in return, also respectfully behave with him. Undoubtedly, no one can deny that one reaps what one sows. A wise person respects others’ perspectives and gets treated well in return. Thus, the fact is that listening enhances one’s respect in society.

Critical Analysis

In a critical diagnosis, one can deduce that all the talkative people are foolish and the quiet ones are wise. Though people who are good at talking display good leadership qualities, silence shows rudeness and lack of interest if one only listens to someone speaking at length. Both sides must keep a balance in their communication. Excess of everything is bad; therefore, the speaker and the listener should not dominate over the other to reap the fruits of respect and peace.

The maxim “the fool speaks and the wise listen” elaborates on the profound wisdom of valuing silence and attentive listening. It encapsulates that one who has learned the art of listening often remains at peace and enhances wisdom through others’ insights, perspectives, and experiences. Likewise, he garners respect in society as he doesn’t let himself lose his time and energy in arguments. However, the proverb reveals some threatening pitfalls of excessive speech, including loss of respect and involvement in evildoings. Besides, the maxim also puts it in one’s consciousness that the arrogance of a fool leads him to talk haphazardly; however, thirst for knowledge makes a wise person reap the rewards of listening.

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Benjamin Disraeli: 'The fool wonders, the wise man asks.'

The fool wonders, the wise man asks.

In the words of Benjamin Disraeli, "The fool wonders, the wise man asks." This profound quote encapsulates the stark contrast between two distinct approaches to life. At first glance, it seems to suggest that those who merely wonder about things are fools, while those who seek understanding through questioning are wise. However, upon closer inspection, this quote holds a deeper meaning that delves into the essence of wisdom and the pursuit of knowledge.To summarize the quote, Disraeli suggests that those who passively wonder about life's mysteries without actively seeking answers are regarded as fools. On the other hand, the wise are individuals who possess the intellectual curiosity and courage to inquire, to ask questions, and to delve further into the depths of knowledge. This straightforward interpretation emphasizes the importance of active engagement, using one's intellect to seek answers instead of simply speculating.But what if I were to introduce a concept that challenges this conventional understanding and adds an unexpected twist to the article? Let us consider the philosophy of wonder. Wonder, as explored by various philosophers throughout history, is associated with a state of awe, marvel, and contemplation. It stimulates our innate curiosity, raising questions about our existence, the universe, and our place within it. Wonder encourages us to explore the marvels of life and to embrace the unknown.The fool, in this context, may be seen as an individual who remains in a constant state of wonder, constantly amazed by life's intricacies but without the agency to ask questions and seek answers. They may be content with the mystery, blissfully unaware of what lies beyond their awe. This perspective presents an intriguing contrast to Disraeli's quote and prompts us to consider the value of wonder itself.In contrast, the wise person, according to Disraeli, is driven by an innate desire for knowledge, pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. They do not merely marvel at the wonders around them; instead, they actively seek to understand and unravel the underlying truths. The act of questioning becomes their compass, leading them on a journey of intellectual growth.While Disraeli's quote implies that the wise man asks questions, the introduction of wonder as a parallel concept reminds us that there can be profound beauty in simply wondering. Wonder ignites our imagination, allowing us to appreciate the mysteries of life without the need for immediate answers. It encourages a sense of humility, acknowledging that some things may forever remain beyond our comprehension.In light of these contrasting perspectives, it becomes clear that both wonder and questioning play crucial roles in our intellectual and spiritual development. The interplay between the two creates a harmonious balance, allowing us to marvel at the unknown while actively seeking understanding.Ultimately, Disraeli's quote serves as a reminder to embrace both wonder and inquiry on our journey to wisdom. It encourages us to remain curious, to engage with the world around us, and to never settle for surface-level understanding. By cultivating both the capacity to wonder and the courage to ask questions, we unlock new avenues of knowledge and experience the richness that life has to offer.In conclusion, Disraeli's quote, "The fool wonders, the wise man asks," carries profound meaning that extends beyond its initial interpretation. It highlights the importance of actively seeking answers rather than passively wondering, urging us to engage in the pursuit of knowledge. However, by introducing the concept of wonder, we uncover a broader perspective that acknowledges the beauty of contemplation and appreciates the mysteries that may forever elude our understanding. The integration of wonder and questioning enables us to cultivate a deeper sense of wisdom, nurturing both our inquisitive nature and our ability to be awestruck by life's marvels.

Benjamin Disraeli: 'The wisdom of the wise and the experience of the ages are perpetuated by quotations.'

Benjamin disraeli: 'it is much easier to be critical than to be correct.'.

Quote Investigator®

Tracing Quotations

The Fool Tries to Convince Me with His Reasons; the Wise Man Persuades Me with My Own

Aristotle? Robert T. Oliver? John Patrick Ryan? Loren Reid? Gerald M. Phillips? Julia T. Wood? Anonymous?

The fool tells me his reasons; the wise man persuades me with my own.

Aristotle sometimes receives credit for this saying, but I have been unable to find a proper citation. Would you please explore this topic?

Quote Investigator: Currently, there is no substantive evidence that Aristotle employed this expression. The earliest close match located by QI occurred in 1942 within a textbook about public speaking and argumentation titled “The Psychology of Persuasive Speech” by Robert T. Oliver. The first chapter referred to the target audience of the book. Emphasis added to excerpts by QI : [1] 1942, The Psychology of Persuasive Speech by Robert T. Oliver (Bucknell University), Chapter 1: The Problems of Persuasion, Quote Page 9, Longmans, Green and Company, New York. (Verified with … Continue reading

The question he brings to the study of persuasion is not, “How can I reach a right conclusion?” but, “How can a given audience be influenced to accept my conclusion?” This point of view deserves the sharpest emphasis it can receive, for it is the catalytic which precipitates the principles set forth in this book. An old proverb of uncertain origin states the essence of this point of view in one sentence: “The fool tries to convince me with his reasons; the wise man persuades me with my own.”

Oliver used the descriptor “old proverb”; hence, he disclaimed authorship and presented an anonymous ascription. Below are additional selected citations in chronological order.

A thematic precursor appeared in Benjamin Franklin’s “Poor Richard’s Almanac” for 1734: [2] 1734, Poor Richard, An Almanack For the Year of Christ 1734, Being the Second after Leap Year (Poor Richard’s Almanac), Benjamin Franklin, Month: June, Column: 2, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. … Continue reading

Would you persuade, speak of Interest, not of Reason.

The saying appeared interspersed within astronomical information for the month of June. The text is underlined in red below:

Another thematic precursor appeared in 1897 as a filler item in newspapers such as “The Pantagraph” of Bloomington, Illinois [3] 1897 October 30, The Pantagraph, All Sorts, Quote Page 3, Column 3, Bloomington, Illinois. (Newspapers_com) and the “Marthasville News” of Marthasville, Missouri: [4] 1897 March 11, Marthasville News, Tangled Threads, Quote Page 1, Column 5, Marthasville, Missouri. (Newspapers_com)

Fools try to convince a woman, but wise men persuade her.

The meaning of the expression hinges on the connotations of the words “convince” and “persuade”. The term “convince” suggests appeals to reason, whereas “persuade” suggests appeals to motivation.

In 1942 a close match appeared in a book by Robert T. Oliver as mentioned previously.

In 1959 the journal “The Speech Teacher” published a profile of Professor John Patrick Ryan of Grinnell College who employed several sayings that his students and colleagues found memorable: [5] 1959 November, The Speech Teacher, Number 4, Volume 8, “John P. Ryan’s Art of Teaching” by Loren Reid, Start Page 288, Quote Page 296, Column 1, Speech Association of America, Falls … Continue reading

He would state an idea succinctly and often repeat it. “Do not make the gods weep,” was his reminder to make speeches compelling. “ A fool convinces me with his reasons—a wise man with my reasons. Seventy-five per cent of your speech is made by the audience.” And “approach the idea, state the idea, develop the idea, leave the idea.”

Also, in 1959 Robert T. Oliver published “Effective Speech for Democratic Living”, and he repeated the expression he used back in 1942: [6] 1959, Effective Speech for Democratic Living, Robert T. Oliver (Robert Tarbell Oliver), (Head, Department of Speech, The Pennsylvania State University), Chapter 8: How to Make Your Ideas Persuasive, … Continue reading

There is an old saying: “The fool tries to convince me with his reasons; the wise man persuades me with my own.” The wise persuasive speaker studies the question of how he may induce his listeners to want to agree with him.

In 1975 “The Process of Persuasion: Principles and Readings” by Wayne N. Thompson included an instance and acknowledged Ryan. The accompanying footnote pointed to the article in “The Speech Teacher”: [7] 1975, The Process of Persuasion: Principles and Readings by Wayne N. Thompson, Quote Page 55, Harper & Row, New York. (Verified on paper)

“A fool convinces me with his reasons,” John P. Ryan supposedly observed, “—a wise man with my reasons. Seventy-five percent of your speech is made by the audience.”

The 1977 edition of “Speaking Well” by Loren Reid contained an instance: [8] 1977, Speaking Well by Loren Reid, Third Edition, Quote Page 351, McGraw-Hill, New York. (Verified on paper)

Your responsibility is to present the evidence fairly; your listeners’ responsibility is to weigh this evidence. Hence good persuasive speaking allows the listener to persuade himself or herself. “A fool convinces me with his reasons, a wise man convinces me with my reasons.”

The 1981 book “Help for Shy People: and anyone else who ever felt ill at ease on entering a room full of strangers” by Gerald M. Phillips attributed the saying to the ancient sage Aristotle. Phillips was a Professor of Speech Communication at Pennsylvania State University: [9] 1986 (1981 Copyright), Help for Shy People: and anyone else who ever felt ill at ease on entering a room full of strangers by Gerald M. Phillips, Chapter 5: Starting to Change, Quote Page 44, (First … Continue reading

We must proceed through Aristotle’s dictum “The fool tells me his reasons, the wise man persuades me with my own.” When we seek to influence others, we must be considerate of their needs and wants.

In 1982 “Human Communication: A Symbolic Interactionist Perspective” by Julia T. Wood attributed the adage to an unnamed ancient thinker: [10] 1982, Human Communication: A Symbolic Interactionist Perspective by Julia T. Wood (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill), (Preface by Julia T. Wood is dated October 1981), Chapter 11: Planning … Continue reading

The fool persuades me with his reasons, the wise man with my own. This idea is as insightful today as it was thousands of years ago when an ancient Greek rhetorician is said to have used it in a lecture to his students.

Also, in 1982 Phillips published an article titled “The Decay of Purposive Communication”, and he again attributed the saying to Aristotle: [11] 1982, Communications and the Future: Prospects, Promises, and Problems, Edited by Howard F. Didsbury Jr., The Decay of Purposive Communication by Gerald M. Phillips (Professor of Speech Communication … Continue reading

Skilled rhetorical speech is directed at the needs of an audience, following Aristotle’s dictum, “ the fool tells me his reasons, the wise man persuades me with my own. ” Democratic societies are considerate and protective of the rights of minorities.

In conclusion, the earliest evidence of this saying located by QI appeared in 1942. The educator Robert T. Oliver described the expression as an “old proverb of uncertain origin”; hence, earlier citations may be uncovered by future researchers. The ascription to Aristotle is currently unsupported.

Image Notes: Cropped image from Raphael’s 1509 fresco “The School of Athens” showing Plato and Aristotle; accessed via Wikimedia Commons.

(Great thanks to Gijs Kruitbosch whose inquiry led QI to formulate this question and perform this exploration. Kruitbosch noted the common unsupported ascription to Aristotle.)

Nassim Nicholas Taleb

phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

the fool speaks, the wise man listens.

Posted by Smokey Stover on May 01, 2004

In Reply to: the fool speaks, the wise man listens. posted by ESC on May 01, 2004

: : Any thoughts?

: How about: the wise man knows that even a fool can speak the truth.

That sounds good, but William Blake wants to be heard for the other side.

Thank God I never was sent to school To be flogged into following the style of a fool. The errors of a wise man make your rule, Rather than the perfections of a fool. SS

© 1997 – 2024 Phrases.org.uk. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 12:15–17

15  y The way of a fool is right in his own eyes ,

but a wise man listens to advice .

16  z The vexation of a fool is known at once ,

but the prudent ignores an insult .

17  a Whoever speaks 1 the truth gives honest evidence ,

but b a false witness utters deceit .

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Proverbs 12:15-25 English Standard Version

15  ( A ) The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,      but a wise man listens to advice. 16  ( B ) The vexation of a fool is known at once,      but the prudent ignores an insult. 17  ( C ) Whoever speaks [ a ] the truth gives honest evidence,      but ( D ) a false witness utters deceit. 18  ( E ) There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts,      but the tongue of the wise brings ( F ) healing. 19  Truthful lips endure forever,      but ( G ) a lying tongue is but for a moment. 20  Deceit is in the heart of ( H ) those who devise evil,      but those who plan peace have joy. 21  ( I ) No ill befalls the righteous,      but the wicked are filled with trouble. 22  ( J ) Lying lips are ( K ) an abomination to the Lord ,      ( L ) but those who act faithfully are his delight. 23  ( M ) A prudent man conceals knowledge,      ( N ) but the heart of fools proclaims folly. 24  ( O ) The hand of the diligent will rule,      while the slothful will be ( P ) put to forced labor. 25  ( Q ) Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down,      but a good word makes him glad.

• Proverbs 12:17 Hebrew breathes out

Cross references

• Proverbs 12:15 : ch. 3:7; 16:2; 21:2; 26:12; [ch. 14:12; 16:25]
• Proverbs 12:16 : [ch. 14:33; 29:11]
• Proverbs 12:17 : ch. 14:5
• Proverbs 12:17 : See ch. 6:19
• Proverbs 12:18 : See Ps. 57:4
• Proverbs 12:18 : See ch. 4:22
• Proverbs 12:19 : ch. 19:9; [Ps. 52:4, 5]
• Proverbs 12:20 : ch. 3:29
• Proverbs 12:21 : Ps. 91:10; [1 Pet. 3:13; 2 Pet. 2:9]
• Proverbs 12:22 : [Rev. 22:15]; See ch. 6:17
• Proverbs 12:22 : ch. 11:20
• Proverbs 12:22 : [ch. 11:1]
• Proverbs 12:23 : [ch. 13:16; 15:2]
• Proverbs 12:24 : [ch. 10:4; 13:4]
• Proverbs 12:24 : [Gen. 49:15; 1 Kgs. 9:21]
• Proverbs 12:25 : ch. 15:13; [ch. 17:22]

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

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Carlos Ruiz Zafón > Quotes > Quotable Quote

“Fools talk, cowards are silent, wise men listen.”

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