I am reading through Letters and Papers from Prison (Bonhoeffer) from the Fortress Press series. This volume opens with a prologue, which seems to be some reflections from Bonhoeffer around 1942. It’s been about 10 years since Hitler has hit the scene and Bonhoeffer is reflecting on key areas that have been influential in that decade.

Stupidity is an area

“Stupidity is a more dangerous enemy of the good than malice. One may protest against evil; it can be exposed and, if need be, prevented by use of force. Evil always carries within itself the germ of its own subversion in that it leaves behind in human beings at least a sense of unease. Against stupidity we are defenseless. Neither protests nor the use of force accomplish anything here; reasons fall on deaf ears; facts that contradict one’s prejudgment simply need not be believed — in such moments the stupid person even becomes critical — and when facts are irrefutable they are just pushed aside as inconsequential, as incidental. In all this the stupid person, in contrast to the malicious one, is utterly self-satisfied and, being easily irritated, becomes dangerous by going on the attack. For that reason, great caution is called for when dealing with a stupid person than with a malicious one. Never again will we try to persuade the stupid person with reasons, for it is senseless and dangerous.” (p. 9)

I am deeply appreciative of Bonhoeffer being able to say the quiet part out loud. And I can just let this quote sit here.

The Prologue of this book, which reflects on the previous ten years in Bonhoeffer’s life (and in the life of Germany) was a good exercise for me as well. The past 10 years of my own life have witnessed shifts personally and culturally that surprised me. It was good for me to reflect privately on these matters.