But the secret of intellectual excellence is the spirit of criticism ; it is intellectual independence. And this leads to difficulties which must prove insurmountable for any kind of authoritarianism. The authoritarian will in general select those who obey, who believe, who respond to his influence. But in doing so, he is bound to select mediocrities. For he excludes those who revolt, who doubt, who dare to resist his influence. Never can an authority admit that the intellectually courageous, i.e. those who dare to defy his authority, may be the most valuable type. Of course, the authorities will always remain convinced of their ability to detect initiative. But what they mean by this is only a quick grasp of their intentions, and they will remain for ever incapable of seeing the difference.

Unthinking respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth,

Unthinking respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth

Nobody will admit his own mental inferiority, even to himself.

One can never consent to creep when one feels an impulse to soar.

A foolish faith in authority is the worst enemy of truth.

Blind belief in authority is the greatest enemy of truth.

Blind respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth.

Fiction is never admitted where truth may work.

Reason can never be the absolute dictator of man’s mental or moral economy.

It is almost impossible to substitute intelligence for experience.

Great intellects are skeptical.

Just so. And wonder, my friend, is the intellect’s most feared foe. Its path is love, and love is the language of humility. The rational mind would stand over it with a bloodstained sword, and in the empty bleakness of its eyes you will see its triumph.

Modern intelligence won't accept anything on authority. But it will accept anything without authority.