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About this quote

What does it mean?
In high politics, acknowledging ignorance is safer than acting on false certainty.
In plain terms
Knowing what you don't know prevents dangerous mistakes.
What can you take from it?
Avoid acting on assumptions in critical decisions.

Where it applies

  • policy making
  • strategic planning
  • crisis management

Putting it to work

  • Conduct pre-decision reviews
  • Invite dissenting opinions

Questions to consider

  • When did assuming knowledge hurt a project?
  • How do you verify your knowledge?

Another view

Overemphasis on uncertainty can lead to paralysis in action.

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