Why aren't Intelligent people successful?

Martin Butler delves into the often perplexing relationship between intelligence and success. Why is it that highly intelligent people frequently struggle to attain the conventional markers of success-money, power, and fame-while those with seemingly less intelligence often thrive in these areas? Martin explores this paradox by discussing the societal values that prioritize wealth and power, and how these can lead to unhappiness and dissatisfaction. He argues that the relentless pursuit of material success is often driven by base desires, which, though effective in accumulating wealth, can leave individuals spiritually and mentally bankrupt.
Martin further explains how people with higher intelligence may focus on more meaningful pursuits like art, music, and philosophy, which don't directly serve the "will to life" that drives the desire for material gain. On the other hand, those with lower intelligence, who are more single-minded in their pursuit of wealth, often rise to positions of power, despite lacking the reflective capacity to see the broader implications of their actions.
Through vivid examples and personal anecdotes, Martin paints a picture of a world where the most ruthless individuals, often labeled as "dumb," climb the corporate ladder by lying, cheating, and stealing. However, he also highlights the intense personal toll this lifestyle can take, including unhappiness, breakdowns, and a lack of fulfillment.
In summary, Martin challenges the societal norms that equate success with intelligence and suggests that true happiness may lie in rejecting these superficial values. For those who prioritize happiness over success, Martin humorously advises considering a lobotomy to fit in with the rest of society, which he likens to a zoo of "lying, cheating, and stealing monkeys."
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2017-08-24