I divide officers into four classes-the clever, the lazy, the stupid, and the industrious. The man who is clever and lazy is fit for the very highest commands. He has the temperament and the requisite nerves to deal with all situations. Those who are clever and industrious are fitted for the high staff appointments. Use can be made of those who are stupid and lazy. But whoever is stupid and industrious must be removed immediately. -General Baron Kurt von Hammerstein-Equord, German Chief of Army Command {1930–33}
General Baron Kurt von Hammerstein-Equord categorized army officers into four distinct types: clever, lazy, stupid, and industrious. He believed that the clever yet lazy individuals are best suited for top command positions due to their ability to navigate various situations effectively without unnecessary effort. These officers possess the temperament and nerves ideal for leadership.
On the other hand, those who are clever and industrious are recommended for high staff roles where their skills can be put to good use. He suggested that despite their shortcomings, lazy and stupid individuals can still serve a purpose, but any officer who is both stupid and industrious should be dismissed immediately, as they pose a risk to efficiency and success in the military context.
