There are seven characteristics which differentiate the wise man from the fool.

A wise man:

• Does not speak before one who is wiser than he.
• Does not interrupt his friend.
• Does not fear to respond.
• Asks questions to the point and responds likewise.
• Responds first to what he was asked first.
• When asked about something he has not learned about he says so.
• Recognizes the truth in views which contradict his own.

... and the opposite is the case as for the fool.