Wisdom is a variable possession. Every man is wise when pursued by a mad dog, fewer when pursued by a mad woman; only the wisest survive when attacked by a mad notion.

Summary

This quote suggests that wisdom is not a fixed quality but rather depends on the circumstances one faces. It indicates that most people display wisdom when confronted with imminent danger, such as being pursued by a mad dog. However, the quote implies that fewer people exhibit wisdom when faced with difficult situations involving unpredictable behavior, such as a mad woman. Furthermore, it suggests that only the truly wise individuals can navigate and withstand challenging situations when they involve irrational ideas or beliefs, referred to as a "mad notion." Overall, the quote highlights the varying levels of wisdom exhibited by individuals depending on the nature of the threat they encounter.

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