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About this quote

What does it mean?
In a dictatorship, perfect evidence is impossible, so the best available proof of weapons was used.
In plain terms
Dictatorships lack solid proof, so the best available evidence was relied upon.
What can you take from it?
Accept imperfect evidence when certainty is unattainable.

Where it applies

  • intelligence assessments
  • wartime decisions

Putting it to work

  • evaluate best available data
  • act on reasonable grounds

Questions to consider

  • When is imperfect evidence enough?
  • How do we verify claims?

Another view

Relying on imperfect evidence can lead to mistakes.

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