Meaning: This quote by Michel de Montaigne, a prominent French Renaissance philosopher, reflects his preference for the company of peasants over the educated elite. Montaigne, known for his skepticism and humanist philosophy, often critiqued the complexities and contradictions of human reasoning. In this quote, he suggests that the uneducated peasants, lacking formal education, are less likely to engage in the kind of flawed reasoning that can result from overthinking or over-education.

Montaigne's preference for the company of peasants is rooted in his belief that they are more authentic and less affected by the biases and prejudices that often accompany formal education. He values their simplicity and directness, which he sees as unclouded by the intellectual complexities that can lead to incorrect reasoning. Montaigne's view challenges the prevailing assumption of his time that education and intellectual refinement were the hallmarks of sound reasoning and wisdom.

It is important to note that Montaigne's preference for peasants does not stem from a belief in their intellectual superiority, but rather from a skepticism towards the limitations of human reasoning, especially when influenced by education and social status. He believed that the uneducated peasants, unencumbered by the complexities of formal education, were more likely to engage in straightforward and honest reasoning. This aligns with his broader philosophical exploration of the human condition and the limitations of human understanding.

Montaigne's quote also reflects his humanist perspective, which emphasizes the importance of understanding and appreciating the common humanity that unites people from different social backgrounds. By expressing his preference for the company of peasants, Montaigne challenges the hierarchical social structures of his time and advocates for a more egalitarian view of human interaction.

In the context of the Renaissance, a period marked by significant advancements in education, art, and philosophy, Montaigne's perspective was particularly noteworthy. His critique of over-education and the potential for incorrect reasoning among the educated elite provided a thought-provoking counterpoint to the prevailing attitudes towards knowledge and social hierarchy. Montaigne's views continue to resonate in contemporary discussions about the value of education, critical thinking, and the sources of genuine wisdom.

In conclusion, Montaigne's quote encapsulates his skepticism towards the pitfalls of over-education and the complexities of human reasoning. His preference for the company of peasants reflects his belief in the unadorned, straightforward nature of their reasoning, unencumbered by the biases and complexities that can accompany formal education. This perspective challenges the prevailing assumptions about the relationship between education, social status, and sound reasoning, offering a thought-provoking critique of human intellectual limitations and the nature of genuine wisdom.