In Iain M. Banks' "The Crow Road," the author explores the notion that intelligence and foolishness can coexist within individuals. He suggests that people can hold significant roles such as teachers, philosophers, or politicians while simultaneously being seen as idiots. This duality implies that even those deemed genius can exhibit idiotic behavior, highlighting a universal quality of human experience.

Banks further argues that the prevalence of idiocy in the world is not necessarily a disadvantage; rather, it could be beneficial in certain contexts, sometimes facilitating personal or professional advancement. This perspective encourages readers to accept the imperfections in themselves and others, acknowledging that folly often plays a role in the complexities of life.