Originally Posted by Iucounu
Why do you think a lack of high intelligence is seen as a tragic flaw? I think that's a good way of putting it, and the best I can come up with is that it has implications for professional success. Maybe it's that intelligence goes to the heart of who you are every waking (and sleeping) moment, whereas sports is something you do that doesn't change who you're seen to be as a person?

I'd answer that final question with an affirmative. I'd also expand on that by pointing out how physical abilities have fairly limited application... whereas intelligence affects EVERYTHING.

It even affects sports performance, though sometimes being too smart can hurt, too.