It’s the one quality that we prize the most. We are wired since we start our educational journey in school. We are tested and graded throughout our childhood and early adulthood. We are asked to memorize countless facts. We are praised for being smart, at the top of the class, even at the expense of other much more important virtues.
I remember having classmates who were the star kids of the classroom because they were really intelligent, in the sense that they could memorize the most facts and solve useless problems and equations. But some of them were also arrogant, condescending, not humble at all, even mean to other kids.
No wonder this system promoting intelligence as the most valued trait has produced countless examples throughout history of exceptionally intelligent individuals who, unfortunately, wielded their intellect to cause immeasurable suffering. And currently, the world is full of examples of incredibly smart people who continue to cause terrible suffering for many: politicians, judges, lawyers, CEOs, founders, drug lords, tyrants, etc.
What’s the point? Why do we value being ‘smart’ so much, as if it were the most important virtue a human being can have? We value it because it’s the one quality that, if applied properly, brings material possessions. It is the golden ticket to success, an indispensable quality that propels one ahead in the race of life.
And being smart is not a negative trait. It is just that by itself, without other virtues around it, can be very dangerous. It shouldn’t be the most prized and valued trait in a person.
If you have a child, would you prefer them to be smart even if they are mean to other kids? Even if they look down condescendingly on others? Even if they are top of their class but but lack empathy, kindness, and humility?
Intellect, as a key part of your mind, serves admirably in resolving the daily challenges life throws at you. Yet, it falls short when expected to navigate the vast arena of human emotions, relationships and morality.
Being smart is undeniably a prerequisite for success, but it's not the sole determiner of a well-rounded individual. The qualities that truly define our humanity extend beyond sheer intelligence: kindness, generosity, humility, compassion, love, honesty, and integrity—all traits originating in the spiritual mind. These are the virtues we must promote and prize before intelligence. Far more important qualities than being smart.
In your pursuit of personal development, don’t lose sight of the importance of cultivating these qualities that make you a better human— qualities that can keep your intellect in check, in subordination to the higher parts of your mind.
Intelligence may open doors, but it is kindness, humanity, justice, unselfish love, mercy, sympathy, honesty, generosity, nobility and empathy that sustain meaningful connections, relationships, and contribute to the collective well-being of society.
Make sure that your intellect is harnessed for the greater good rather than becoming a tool for personal gain at the expense of others.
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