Praise and criticism
Artists and intellectuals
October 12th 2013
The heart and the mind do not have the same requirements; they each need different food and must therefore be exerted differently. Artists, with their highly developed heart and sensitivity, need encouragement. Criticism is particularly painful to them. How many artists have died because they were misunderstood!
Conversely, thinkers and philosophers are strengthened by being the object of criticism, as the intellect develops by means of difficulties and obstacles. It is always ready to seek new arguments, new solutions. It needs to be exercised, and criticism provides ample opportunity for this. It is not afraid of confrontation, as it is built to resist.
So show artists that you appreciate them and congratulate them, but do not overly applaud intellectuals. Praise and criticism – you have to know when, how and to whom you should give them.