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About this quote

What does it mean?
Idealists who are overly focused on a single goal can easily cross into fanaticism.
In plain terms
Extreme idealism can quickly turn into dangerous obsession.
What can you take from it?
Watch out for rigid single-mindedness in ideals.

Where it applies

  • political movements
  • personal goals
  • organizational culture

Putting it to work

  • Balance conviction with open-mindedness
  • Question overly rigid ideologies

Questions to consider

  • Where is the line between passion and obsession?
  • Can good intentions justify extreme methods?

Another view

Some breakthroughs require extreme single-minded focus that resembles fanaticism.

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