This quote by Voltaire suggests that the number of people who truly think critically and deeply is quite small. Moreover, these few individuals do not aim to create chaos or disorder in the world. Instead, they quietly engage in their intellectual pursuits.
The first part of the quote implies that not everyone is inclined to think profoundly or question the status quo. Many people might be content with accepting things as they are, without questioning or challenging them. This could be due to a variety of reasons such as lack of interest, fear of conflict, or simply being comfortable with the way things are.
The second part of the quote suggests that those who do think deeply aren’t necessarily disruptive or rebellious. They are not interested in creating disruptions for the sake of it. Instead, they use their thinking to understand the world better, to explore ideas, and possibly to bring about positive changes.
Applying this quote to today’s world, we can see that the majority of people might be more focused on their daily lives and immediate needs, rather than thinking about larger issues. However, those who do engage in deep thinking can have a significant impact, even if they do not aim to “disturb the world”. They might be the ones coming up with innovative solutions to problems, creating inspiring works of art, or leading social movements.
In terms of personal development, this quote might encourage us to cultivate our thinking skills and to not be afraid of being in the minority. It suggests that thinking deeply is not about causing trouble, but about understanding and engaging with the world in a meaningful way. It may also remind us that even if our ideas are not popular or widely accepted, they can still be valuable and important.