Is it true, as Ludwig Wittgenstein asserted, that "Our greatest stupidities may be very wise"?

Answer 1

I agree with the first answer, but I think there is another view that could be assessed.

Often the dreams and ideas of children are viewed as "stupid childish concepts" or meaningless, but this isn't necessarily true. Sometimes, the simplest idea of a child can be developed it the most profound ideas. Perhaps this is because they are new, thus having a fresh look that can see what adults may overlook. Also because they have that innocent newness they aren't afraid of being wrong and they don't see limits set by eternal forces.

So perhaps "Our greatest stupidities" relates to the ideas that we have as adults that are almost just silly, ideas that we wouldn't share with other adults for fear of rejection. These idea are fun to play with and as we play with them we happen upon something accidental that turns out to be more important than we imagined with out adult minds, thus being "very wise".

Even if this isn't what Wittgenstein meant it is still a good idea. No matter how old you are you shouldn't be afraid to "be silly". Don't be afraid to dream what others call impossible. To often adults let the external limitations bind them to the ground when, if they would just let go a bit, they would be able to reach the sun.

Answer 2

it very well could be true. it goes back to the saying, you learn through your mistakes.