This quote by Bertrand Russell suggests that the more revolutionary or significant a new idea is, the more resistance it will face. This resistance could come from various sources such as societal norms, established institutions, or even our own comfort zones. The ‘square of its importance’ implies an exponential increase in resistance, not just a linear one. This means that as the importance of an idea grows, the resistance doesn’t just grow in a one-to-one ratio, but multiplies.

This concept can be seen in many historical instances. For example, the idea of women’s suffrage was extremely important and revolutionary, and it faced immense resistance before it was finally accepted. Similarly, the idea of racial equality has also faced, and continues to face, significant resistance due to its importance and impact on society.

In today’s world, we can see this concept in action in various fields. For instance, in the field of science, revolutionary ideas like climate change or the theory of evolution have faced substantial resistance due to their significant implications. In the business world, disruptive technologies or business models often face resistance from established players and regulatory bodies.

On a personal development level, this quote can be interpreted as a reminder that significant personal growth often comes with challenges. For instance, the decision to break a harmful habit, pursue a new career path, or adopt a healthier lifestyle can be seen as important and revolutionary ideas on a personal level. These decisions often face resistance, both from within ourselves and from people around us. However, the quote also suggests that it’s the very importance of these ideas that makes them worth pursuing despite the resistance.

In conclusion, this quote by Bertrand Russell highlights the paradox of progress and innovation: the more significant an idea is, the more resistance it will face. However, it’s precisely these ideas that can lead to the most profound changes and advancements.