John Webster: ''Tis better to be fortunate than wise.'
'Tis better to be fortunate than wise.
In his quote, "Tis better to be fortunate than wise," John Webster encapsulates a thought-provoking idea that challenges conventional wisdom. At first glance, this statement may seem puzzling, as wisdom is often regarded as a desirable attribute that leads to success and fulfillment. However, Webster's words hint at the undeniably unpredictable nature of life and the powerful role that luck plays in our outcomes. In this blog article, we will explore the meaning and importance of this quote, then delve into an unexpected philosophical concept to add intrigue to our exploration.To begin, let us decipher the quote in a straightforward manner. "Tis better to be fortunate than wise" implies that being fortunate, or lucky, holds greater value than possessing wisdom. This perspective challenges the notion that knowledge and intelligence are the key drivers of a prosperous life. Instead, it suggests that even if one lacks wisdom, chance occurrences can steer them towards success or favorable outcomes. Although Webster's quote appears to dismiss the importance of wisdom, it does so to highlight the undeniable influence of fortune.The significance of this quote lies in its ability to provoke reflection and challenge our beliefs. It encourages us to reconsider our assumptions concerning the relationship between wisdom and fortune. While wisdom is often associated with making informed decisions and navigating through life's challenges, Webster reminds us that luck can often override our rationality. This realization can be both humbling and liberating, as it acknowledges that our existence is shaped not only by our intellect but also by external factors beyond our control.Now, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept, Existential Absurdity, to further enrich our exploration. Existential Absurdity is the notion that human existence lacks inherent meaning or purpose, thereby thrusting us into a universe that often appears irrational and chaotic. This concept aligns intriguingly with Webster's quote, as it echoes the sentiment that fortune, rather than wisdom, can be the determining factor in our lives.In the realm of Existential Absurdity, the distinction between being fortunate and wise becomes blurred. Luck, in its capricious nature, can dictate the course of our lives, making wisdom seem futile in the grand scheme of things. The absurdity lies in the constant struggle to find meaning and order in a world governed by uncontrollable circumstances. This concept challenges us to question the primacy of wisdom and to embrace the inherent uncertainty and randomness of existence.However, the purpose of introducing Existential Absurdity is not to discourage the pursuit of wisdom but rather to encourage a balanced perspective. While fortune may sometimes overshadow wisdom, it does not render it useless or unimportant. Wisdom serves as a compass that guides us through life's unpredictable terrain, even when luck seems to hold sway. Furthermore, embracing the reality of Existential Absurdity can liberate us from the pressure to constantly seek meaning and control, allowing us to embrace life's inherent unpredictability with curious wonder.In conclusion, John Webster's quote, "Tis better to be fortunate than wise," challenges our conventional understanding of success and fulfillment. It highlights the powerful influence of luck in shaping our lives and encourages us to reevaluate the primacy of wisdom. Furthermore, by introducing the philosophical concept of Existential Absurdity, we deepen our exploration, revealing the inherent unpredictability of existence and the tension between fortune and wisdom. Ultimately, this quote serves as a reminder to approach life with both humility and curiosity, acknowledging the interplay of luck and knowledge in shaping our destinies.