This quote speaks to the idea that great minds, talents, or personalities like Michael Angelo or Socrates cannot be judged by ordinary standards or measures. “Village scales” implies a small-minded perspective, one that is limited by its own narrow experiences and understanding. The irregularities of these extraordinary individuals are what set them apart from the rest and contributed to their greatness. They were not conformists but rather trailblazers who dared to push boundaries in their respective fields.
In today’s world, this concept can be applied in various ways. It reminds us not to judge people’s worth based on societal norms or conventional benchmarks of success. As an example, someone might drop out of college and still go on to achieve significant accomplishments (like Bill Gates).Similarly, an artist might choose an unconventional style that doesn’t fit into mainstream tastes but still produces impactful work.
In terms of personal development, it encourages us to embrace our unique traits and strengths instead of trying to fit into a mold created by society. It suggests that we should measure our success by our own standards rather than comparing ourselves with others around us.
Moreover, it also highlights the importance of perspective when appreciating others’ achievements or abilities—what may seem ‘irregular’ from a narrow viewpoint could well be a signifier of genius when viewed through a broader lens.
