The quote highlights the chaotic nature of a riot, where reason and intelligence dissipate amidst the collective frenzy. In such moments, individuals lose their rational thought and are overtaken by overwhelming emotions, resulting in a chaotic atmosphere. It suggests that the average intellect of the crowd declines significantly, overshadowing even the smartest individuals present.

This observation emphasizes how group dynamics can diminish critical thinking and foster irrational behavior. When people are caught up in the passions of a crowd, individual intellect becomes irrelevant, leading to a scenario where emotions govern actions rather than reasoned deliberation. This serves as a reminder of the potential dangers inherent in mass movements.