Here's why:
* Cleverness refers to intelligence, ingenuity, and the ability to think quickly and effectively. It's a cognitive skill.
* Selfishness refers to prioritizing one's own needs and desires above others. It's a character trait related to self-centeredness and a lack of empathy.
A person can be both clever and selfish, or neither.
* A clever person may use their intelligence for selfish purposes. They might manipulate or deceive others to get what they want.
* A selfish person may not be clever at all. They might simply lack the ability to understand or consider the needs of others.
* A clever person can also be selfless. They might use their intelligence to help others and contribute to the greater good.
* A person can be neither clever nor selfish. They might be average in intelligence and have a balanced sense of self and others.
Therefore, cleverness and selfishness are not opposites. They are different concepts that can coexist or be separate.