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For when you assemble a number of men to have the…

“For when you assemble a number of men to have the advantage of their joint wisdom, you inevitably assemble with those men, all their prejudices, their passions, their errors of opinion, their local interests, and their selfish views. From such an assembly can a perfect production be expected?” quote by Benjamin Franklin
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““For when you assemble a number of men to have the advantage of their joint wisdom, you inevitably assemble with those men, all their prejudices, their passions, their errors of opinion, their local interests, and their selfish views. From such an assembly can a perfect production be expected?””

Benjamin Franklin

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Gathering many minds brings both wisdom and bias; perfect outcomes are unlikely when personal prejudices dominate.

In simple terms: Group decisions mix insight with bias, making perfection rare.

Key Takeaway

Seek diverse perspectives while guarding against shared blind spots.

Themes

decision making bias collaboration wisdom error

Mood

cautious analytical thoughtful

Type

critical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • team projects
  • policy committees
  • brainstorming sessions
  • public forums
  • organizational meetings

Key Concepts

group dynamics cognitive bias collective intelligence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What mechanisms can reduce group bias?
  • How can we balance wisdom and prejudice in teams?
A Different Perspective

May underestimate the value of dissent and critical debate.

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