George Bernard Shaw offers a sharp critique masked in wit, addressing not just the content taught at universities but the manner in which knowledge is processed and internalized. The quote suggests that knowledge, be it philosophy, science, or art, is neutral until filtered through one’s intellectual capacity and mindset. A 'fool' misinterprets and twists these disciplines: philosophy becomes folly—empty or foolish thinking, science is reduced to superstition—beliefs without empirical grounding, and art gets bogged down into pedantry—overly concerned with trivial details or dogma.

This reflection invites us to question how education shapes understanding and not just what is taught. Simply attending university or accumulating knowledge does not guarantee wisdom or enlightenment. Critical thinking, open-mindedness, and the ability to synthesize and contextualize information are crucial. Shaw seems to warn against rote learning or superficial consumption of knowledge, which can lead to distorted beliefs rather than enlightenment.

In the broader sense, this quote remains profoundly relevant today where information overload can easily be misinterpreted or misused. It challenges educators and learners alike to aspire beyond surface-level knowledge and to cultivate a discerning mind. Only then can education truly empower individuals and societies rather than merely producing parrots of information lacking true comprehension.