The saying you mentioned is a form of folk wisdom or advice, often presented in a more concise form: "Sometimes you have to play the fool to fool the fools." It suggests that in certain situations, acting as if you are unaware or naive might be a strategic move to deceive others who believe they are deceiving you.
This notion is rooted in the concept of strategic deception or manipulation, where one may adopt a less threatening or unsuspecting persona to gain an advantage over others who may underestimate or misjudge them. In some contexts, it could be seen as a form of psychological warfare or a tactic used in games, negotiations, or certain social situations.
However, it is essential to approach this idea with caution and ethical considerations. While strategic thinking is a part of human interaction and survival, using deception to manipulate others can lead to negative consequences and harm trust in relationships. Furthermore, intentionally misleading or tricking others may damage your own credibility in the long run, and it can be challenging to determine when such behavior is appropriate or justified.
In any social interaction, honesty, transparency, and empathy should ideally prevail. Building trust and understanding in relationships is generally more sustainable and fulfilling in the long term. While there may be specific situations where strategic deception might be considered, the general principle of being genuine and respectful in your interactions tends to be a more reliable approach.