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About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker distinguishes between blame and responsibility, arguing that even without blame for unintended acts one must own the healing.
In plain terms
You don't get blamed if you didn't understand the consequences but you must help fix it.
What can you take from it?
Ignorance may excuse blame but not the duty to repair damage.

Where it applies

  • accidents
  • policy errors

Putting it to work

  • own the fix
  • learn from consequences

Questions to consider

  • Where do blame and responsibility split?
  • What is the duty to heal?

Another view

Sometimes ignorance is a valid legal defense.

More from Orson Scott Card

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  3. It's the worst thing you'll ever do in your life, helping the people you love to something that in your heart you know is deeply wrong.

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