I think intelligence is totally subjective; it's like sexiness.

In this quote, David Fincher compares intelligence to sexiness, suggesting that both are subjective qualities, meaning that they are open to personal interpretation and individual preferences. Fincher implies that what one person finds intellectually stimulating or attractive may not be the same for someone else. Just as sexiness is often in the eye of the beholder, so too is intelligence, shaped by personal biases, values, and perspectives.

Fincher's statement challenges the traditional view that intelligence is a fixed, objective trait that can be measured in the same way for everyone. Instead, he presents intelligence as a fluid and relative concept, suggesting that the way we perceive someone's intellect can vary depending on our own experiences, culture, and worldview. In the same way, attractiveness is often influenced by individual tastes, so too is our perception of someone’s intellectual abilities.

The origin of this quote likely reflects Fincher's style as a director and storyteller, particularly in films that explore complex characters and subjective realities. As a filmmaker known for his exploration of the human psyche in movies like Fight Club and Se7en, Fincher often delves into themes of subjectivity, perception, and identity, where personal interpretation plays a significant role in understanding characters and their motivations.

Ultimately, Fincher’s words suggest that intelligence is not a one-size-fits-all concept but rather something that can be defined in multiple ways depending on one's perspective. It encourages a more open-minded and personalized approach to how we evaluate both intellectual and physical traits, acknowledging that these qualities are shaped by our own individual experiences and preferences.