When comparing Mike Ehrmantraut and Saul Goodman (both characters from Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul), the question of who is smarter depends on how you define "smarts," as they possess different kinds of intelligence and skills:
1. Mike Ehrmantraut:
Practical Intelligence: Mike is known for his calm, calculated, and methodical approach to problems. He is highly resourceful, always thinking several steps ahead. Mike's background in law enforcement gives him an edge in understanding how to navigate dangerous situations without attracting attention.
Tactical and Strategic: He's exceptional at handling physical confrontations, security systems, and surveillance. His intelligence lies in his ability to assess threats, eliminate problems discreetly, and maintain control over complex situations.
Emotional Intelligence: Mike is also quite good at reading people, understanding motivations, and managing people in tense situations.
2. Saul Goodman (Jimmy McGill):
Cleverness and Manipulation: Saul is more of a "street-smart" character who thrives on his ability to manipulate people and situations. His intelligence is more about persuasion, bending the law, and finding loopholes.
Creative Problem Solving: Saul is incredibly inventive when it comes to legal loopholes, dirty tricks, and using the law in unconventional ways. He often comes up with schemes that are wildly creative and risk-taking, even if they're not always successful.
Social Intelligence: Saul’s ability to charm, manipulate, and talk his way out of trouble sets him apart. He’s highly effective in navigating the legal system and manipulating others for his benefit.
Who's Smarter?
Mike is more methodical, tactical, and focused on direct problem-solving, especially in dangerous or physical situations. His intelligence is grounded in practical, real-world applications.
Saul, on the other hand, is more intellectually creative, using his wit, charm, and understanding of the law to find unique solutions to problems. His intelligence is based more on social manipulation and legal maneuvering.