In action a great heart is the chief qualification. In work, a great head.

Arthur Schopenhauer’s quote, "In action a great heart is the chief qualification. In work, a great head," reflects his philosophical distinction between two different kinds of greatness—one driven by emotion and passion, and the other by intellect and reason. Schopenhauer emphasizes that when it comes to action, the heart—representing courage, commitment, and emotional drive—plays a central role. In contrast, work, which involves focused effort and problem-solving, requires the capacity of a great head, or a sharp, logical mind.

The quote suggests that there are two essential qualities that contribute to human success: heart and head. A great heart enables a person to act with determination, while a great head allows them to approach challenges with thoughtfulness and intelligence. Schopenhauer’s distinction here is rooted in his belief that action is often more about willpower and intuition, while work requires the ability to analyze, plan, and execute with precision.

Schopenhauer's philosophy often revolved around the interplay between will and reason, and this quote encapsulates that tension. The heart symbolizes the will, the driving force behind human behavior, while the head symbolizes reason, the intellect that guides our decision-making. Schopenhauer seems to be arguing that while both are important, each has its own domain where it excels—emotion fuels our actions, while reason governs our work.

Ultimately, this quote reflects Schopenhauer’s belief that the right balance of passion and intellect is crucial for achieving greatness in both life and labor. It underscores the idea that different tasks and pursuits demand different kinds of strengths, and that success comes from knowing when to rely on emotion and when to rely on reason.