Meaning: The quote "When a philosopher says something that is true then it is trivial. When he says something that is not trivial then it is false" is often attributed to the mathematician Carl Friedrich Gauss. This quote is a thought-provoking statement that challenges the nature of truth, the role of philosophers, and the perception of knowledge.

At first glance, the quote seems paradoxical. It suggests that if a philosopher makes a statement that is true, it is considered trivial, while if the statement is not trivial, it is considered false. This assertion challenges traditional notions of truth and significance. It raises questions about the nature of truth and the value we place on different kinds of knowledge.

One interpretation of this quote is that it highlights the tension between simplicity and complexity in philosophical discourse. When a philosopher makes a statement that is true, it may be something that is already widely accepted or easily understood, hence making it trivial. On the other hand, when a philosopher presents an idea that is complex or unconventional, it may be perceived as false due to its departure from commonly held beliefs or its difficulty to comprehend.

Gauss, as a mathematician, likely made this statement in the context of rigorous logical reasoning and the pursuit of mathematical truth. In the realm of mathematics, truths are often derived from simple and elegant proofs, and complex or convoluted arguments are often met with skepticism. This perspective may have influenced Gauss's view of philosophical truths and their perceived significance.

Another interpretation of the quote is that it reflects the challenge of effectively communicating profound or unconventional ideas. Philosophers often grapple with complex and abstract concepts that may be difficult for the general audience to grasp. As a result, when a philosopher presents a non-trivial idea, it may be misinterpreted or dismissed as false due to its complexity.

Additionally, the quote could be seen as a critique of the perceived value of philosophical insights. It challenges the notion that profound or unconventional ideas are inherently false, suggesting that they may be overlooked or misunderstood due to their complexity. This interpretation prompts a reevaluation of how we assess the significance of philosophical discourse and the criteria we use to determine the validity of ideas.

In conclusion, the quote by Carl Friedrich Gauss presents a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of truth and the challenges inherent in philosophical discourse. It invites reflection on the tension between simplicity and complexity, the communication of profound ideas, and the perceived value of philosophical insights. Whether intended as a critique, a paradox, or a reflection of Gauss's own experiences, this quote continues to spark intellectual inquiry and debate within philosophical and mathematical circles.