The essay reflects on the nature of intelligence, highlighting how deep thinkers engage with problems beyond merely finding solutions. The author contrasts their own approach to problem-solving with a more intellectually curious individual, suggesting that genuine understanding requires going beyond initial answers. This insight emphasizes that intelligence is not just about cognitive abilities; it is also informed by virtues like honesty and a willingness to question accepted answers. Ultimately, one's intellectual capacity can be expanded through the adoption of good intellectual practices, illustrating that intelligence can develop over time.
I had the opposite tendency: as soon as I'd reached the end of the proof, I'd stop since I'd 'gotten the answer.' Afterward, he'd come out with three or four proofs of the same thing.
Intelligent people simply aren't willing to accept answers that they don't understand - no matter how many other people try to convince them of it.
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