"One of the indictments of civilizations is that happiness and intelligence are so rarely found in the same person"

The quote by William Feather, "Among the indictments of civilizations is that happiness and intelligence are so rarely found in the same person", welcomes a nuanced assessment of the relationship between happiness, intelligence, and the societal structures that often separate the 2. Feather suggests that it is a defect or limitation of human civilization that individuals embodying both happiness and intelligence are scarce.

Firstly, this statement suggests a fundamental tension that civilization types between joy and intelligence. Intelligence typically includes a deep understanding of the world, including its intricacies, injustices, and the futility of particular human ventures. Such awareness can cause a frustrating sense of disillusionment or existential angst, which might diminish one's individual happiness. Intelligent individuals may discover themselves burdened by an intense awareness of international concerns, social oppressions, or the transience of life, which may overshadow personal contentment.

Conversely, joy is frequently related to simpleness or a lack of problem from the world's concerns. In a lot of cases, joy requires a specific detachment or ignorance of bigger issues. Individuals who are blissfully oblivious of the intricacies of life or who neglect them may find accomplishing joy much easier. This dichotomy suggests that supported intelligence may strip away the innocence that frequently protects happiness.

Furthermore, Feather's quote can be considered as a review of social values and structures that stop working to nurture environments where both attributes can exist side-by-side freely. Modern civilization might prioritize production, effectiveness, and competition often gratifying those who focus directly on attaining success instead of promoting well-rounded development that includes emotional contentment.

Furthermore, societal stereotypes and expectations may also dictate that intelligence should lead to vital questioning and apprehension, while happiness needs satisfaction and approval, additional driving a wedge in between the 2.

Thus, the quote highlights a societal defect: stopping working to foster conditions where people can be both insightful and cheerful. Bridging this space might require reassessing social priorities, encouraging emotional intelligence, and promoting well balanced lives that accommodate and celebrate both intellectual pursuits and personal happiness.