This quote suggests that when faced with statements or ideas that make no sense or are impossible to understand, the most effective response is to mock or ridicule them. Jefferson is arguing that trying to logically refute an illogical statement is futile. Instead, by exposing its absurdity through humor or sarcasm, one can highlight the unintelligibility of the proposition and potentially persuade others to dismiss it as well.

The quote also implies that ridicule can be a powerful tool in the face of ignorance or irrationality. By making a spectacle of the nonsensical, one can potentially influence public opinion and sway the balance of discourse. It’s a tool that can be used to challenge and dismantle false or misleading narratives.

In today’s world, this quote can be applied in a variety of contexts. For instance, in the realm of politics or social media, where misinformation or “fake news” often circulates, ridicule can be used as a tool to debunk these unintelligible propositions. Satire, for example, has been used effectively by comedians and talk show hosts to highlight the absurdity of certain political statements or policies.

In terms of personal development, this idea could be applied in learning to deal with irrational or nonsensical arguments. Instead of becoming frustrated or trying to reason with unreason, one could use humor or sarcasm to diffuse the situation and highlight the illogic of the other person’s position.

However, it’s worth noting that while ridicule can be an effective tool, it should be used judiciously. Excessive or inappropriate use of ridicule can come across as disrespectful or unkind, and may not always be the best approach to foster understanding or change minds. It’s a powerful weapon, but like all weapons, it needs to be handled with care.