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About this quote

What does it mean?
Stein suggests that without an initial inquiry or doubt, no resolution or answer can occur; questions precede answers.
In plain terms
If there is no question, there is no answer.
What can you take from it?
Asking questions is necessary to find answers.

Where it applies

  • problem solving
  • learning
  • philosophical reasoning

Putting it to work

  • formulate clear questions
  • challenge assumptions

Questions to consider

  • What questions are you avoiding?
  • What answer needs a better question?

Another view

Some answers emerge through experience before being questioned.

More from Gertrude Stein

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  3. And so I am an American and I have lived half my life in Paris, not the half that made me but the half in which I made what I made.

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