In George Eliot's "Middlemarch," the author explores the nature of human interactions and social norms. She notes that there is a certain level of foolishness that society can tolerate and even embrace, which is essential for maintaining relationships and community bonds. This idea suggests that not all forms of ignorance or incompetence are equally harmful in social settings.

The quote implies that while some forms of stupidity may be unbearable, others serve a purpose in fostering social connections. These acceptable shortcomings allow individuals to relate to one another, highlighting the complexities of human behavior and the importance of understanding in societal dynamics.