"We say of an animal that it is intelligent, and we say the same thing of a woman; but in neither case is it usually appropriate, clearly for very different reasons"

This quote by Jose Bergamin is a commentary en route society views intelligence. He is recommending that when we say an animal or a lady is smart, it is not typically proper. He indicates that this is due to various reasons. This might be analyzed as a criticism of the way society views intelligence, particularly in regards to ladies. He is suggesting that intelligence is not seen as a preferable trait in women, which this is a reflection of the patriarchal society we live in. He is also recommending that animals are not viewed as intelligent, even though they can be. This quote highlights the need for society to re-evaluate its views on intelligence and to acknowledge the intelligence of both women and animals.