A Matter of Method

A philosopher observed a fool beating his donkey. He approached the fool and said, "Abstain, my son, abstain, I implore you. Those who resort to violence shall suffer from violence."

The fool, continuing to strike the animal, replied, "That is exactly what I'm trying to teach this beast, which has kicked me!"

As the philosopher walked away, he reflected to himself, "Doubtless, the wisdom of fools is no deeper nor truer than ours, but they certainly seem to have a more impressive way of imparting it."