is god a simpleton?

a friend of mine recently referred to an essay on her blog that eschewed intelligence over ignorance. the essay put forward the notion that being a simpleton is slightly better than the ongoing quest for knowledge in that a simpleton is happier. while the saying 'ignorance is bliss' probably has its grounds in reality, i like to think that the capacity for abstract thought has brought progress to the world. i understand the argument put forth- faith and belief in god makes people happier overall- and the pesky search for knowledge leaves people empty and questioning. i don't agree entirely. curiousity and self-exploration is part of the basic human make-up and has led to the discovery of countless inventions and technology. without ambition and intelligence, the world would not be the way it is today. i do feel that there should be a balance to the way we approach the world. many people look to religion to maintain that balance but i don't feel that that is a requirement. i think that people can find a balance to their lives by embracing a more simplistic life style coupled with the desire to learn. one does not have to 'keep up with the joneses' in order to be happy but one does not have to remain ignorant to maintain sanity. i certainly thank my friend for giving me much fodder for thought and for letting me use my intelligence to do so.