"When a true genius appears, you can know him by this sign: that all the dunces are in a confederacy against him"

This quote by Jonathan Swift suggests that when a real genius appears, they will be consulted with opposition from those who are less intelligent. The quote suggests that those who are less smart will form a group or "confederacy" against the genius, in an effort to challenge them and their ideas. This could be viewed as a type of jealousy or insecurity, as the genius is viewed as a danger to the status quo. The quote likewise indicates that the genius will have the ability to recognize this opposition and will be able to increase above it. It recommends that the genius will have the ability to recognize the truth of their concepts and will have the ability to withstand the opposition and show their worth. This quote is a suggestion that true genius will constantly be met opposition, but that it is possible to rise above it and show one's worth.