Wise Solomon writes in Ecclesiastes 4:13 that a poor and wise youth is better than an old and foolish king who will no longer be admonished. An old person, described as having a hoary head, a crown of glory, possesses experience gained through many years of living, implying a fund of wisdom. However, one with diminished faculties in a position of authority, who foolishly and stubbornly refuses counsel, can spell disaster for the people he leads. Isaiah 3:4 warns that God will give children to be their princes, and babes shall rule over them, suggesting immaturity in leadership. In a free society where citizens choose their leaders, electing an old fool to a position of authority is an indictment of the whole nation, implying that the people's judgment is questionable and that they may choose someone as foolish and unreliable as themselves to lead them.

The foolish person, as described in biblical wisdom, lacks good judgment and sense, acting rashly and self-centeredly. Such a person enjoys controversy, trusts in personal abilities and feelings, and rejects seeking advice on the right path. Fools are wise in their own eyes, believing they know best, yet they struggle to control their emotions, actions, and especially their speech. They are unthinking, self-absorbed, unadvisable, and unrestrained, deficient in understanding what is good for themselves and others. Their central problem is ignoring God, acting as if He does not exist and disregarding His Word. They do whatever pleases them without considering the consequences, believing they will never have to give an account for their actions. According to Proverbs 10:23, the fool finds perverse behavior entertaining, viewing lewdness as sport and scoffing at critics, not taking it seriously or seeing the degeneration, destruction, and death it ultimately brings. In contrast, those with understanding delight in wisdom, living in the sight of God while others follow the foolish ways of the world.