Meaning: The quote by Friedrich Durrenmatt encompasses a thought-provoking perspective on the concept of a state and its significance to individuals with varying levels of critical thinking. Durrenmatt, a Swiss playwright and author known for his philosophical insights, invites contemplation on the nature of the state and its role in human society.

For individuals lacking critical acumen, Durrenmatt suggests that a state is perceived as a mythical entity. This portrayal implies that those without the capacity for critical thinking may view the state as an abstract or mystical force, divorced from rational understanding. In this context, the state is likely to be perceived as an enigmatic and incomprehensible power, beyond the grasp of individuals who do not engage in critical analysis.

Conversely, Durrenmatt presents the state as a rational fiction for those who think critically. Here, the term "rational fiction" suggests that the state is a construct that is not based on empirical reality but serves as a conceptual framework created by humans to facilitate coexistence. This viewpoint aligns with the idea that critical thinking leads to a deeper understanding of the state as a human-made institution, designed to organize and regulate human interactions within a society.

Durrenmatt's assertion that the state is a rational fiction created by humans to facilitate coexistence reflects the social contract theory, which posits that individuals willingly surrender some of their freedoms to a governing authority in exchange for the protection of their rights and the maintenance of social order. This perspective underscores the role of the state as a product of human agency, crafted to address the complexities of human coexistence through governance and regulation.

Moreover, Durrenmatt's quote alludes to the dual nature of the state, encompassing both its symbolic and functional dimensions. As a mythical entity, the state may embody symbolic attributes that evoke emotional or cultural significance for its citizens, serving as a source of identity, allegiance, and collective consciousness. Simultaneously, as a rational fiction, the state operates as a practical system of governance with legal, administrative, and regulatory functions that shape the dynamics of societal interactions.

Durrenmatt's philosophical reflection on the state resonates with broader inquiries into political theory, governance, and the nature of authority. It prompts contemplation on the interplay between perception and cognition, as well as the complex interrelationship between individuals and the institutions that govern their lives.

In conclusion, Friedrich Durrenmatt's quote offers a thought-provoking exploration of the state as both a mythical entity for those lacking critical acumen and a rational fiction for those who engage in critical thinking. By delving into the conceptual underpinnings of the state, Durrenmatt's words invite contemplation on the nature of governance, human coexistence, and the intricate interplay between perception and rational understanding in the context of societal organization.