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The wisdom of the wise is an uncommon degree of common sense.
William Ralph Inge
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Wisdom involves applying common sense in a way that is rare and insightful.

This quote suggests that true wisdom is not just about having knowledge or education, but rather the ability to use common sense in an insightful manner. It emphasizes that the wise are able to see beyond the ordinary and apply simple truths in profound ways, which is not something everyone possesses.

Themes

WisdomCommon SenseInsightKnowledge

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about leadership, one could cite this quote to emphasize the importance of practical wisdom.

More from William Ralph Inge

A man is never so truly and intensely himself as when he is most possessed by God. It is impossible to say where, in the spiritual life, the human will leaves off and divine grace begins.
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Don't get up from the feast of life without paying for your share of it.
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Worry is interest paid on trouble before it comes due.
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Deliberate cruelty to our defenceless and beautiful little cousins is surely one of the meanest and most detestable vices of which a human being can be guilty.
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The enemies of freedom do not argue; they shout and they shoot.
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Bereavement is the deepest initiation into the mysteries of human life, an initiation more searching and profound than even happy love.
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