What does the hobgoblins of little minds mean?

The phrase "hobgoblins of little minds" refers to trivial fears, anxieties, or concerns that occupy the thoughts of small-minded or narrow-thinking individuals. It suggests that such people allow insignificant worries to dominate their thinking, preventing them from engaging with more important or profound ideas. The expression emphasizes the contrast between the limitations of a small mind and the potential for greater understanding and wisdom. It is often attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson, who used it to advocate for open-mindedness and intellectual growth.