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The tyrannosaurus looked a little shamefaced - but only a…

“The tyrannosaurus looked a little shamefaced - but only a little, for dinosaurs would rather drown in tar than admit they're wrong. That unfortunate attitude played a key role in their extinction. Naturally, they have steadfastly refused to own up to it, so I cannot tell you where it all went…” quote by Catherynne M. Valente
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““The tyrannosaurus looked a little shamefaced - but only a little, for dinosaurs would rather drown in tar than admit they're wrong. That unfortunate attitude played a key role in their extinction. Naturally, they have steadfastly refused to own up to it, so I cannot tell you where it all went reptiles-up.””

Catherynne M. Valente

About This Quote

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

Dinosaurs deny their mistakes, preferring self‑deception, which led to their downfall; the quote uses humor to illustrate the danger of stubbornness.

In simple terms: Denial leads to extinction.

Key Takeaway

Avoid self‑deception.

Themes

pride denial extinction humor

Mood

thoughtful wry

Type

philosophical satirical

When to use this quote

  • leadership decisions
  • scientific debates
  • personal growth
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

cognitive bias evolutionary failure

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you refused to admit error?
  • What consequences followed?
A Different Perspective

Humor may mask serious critique.

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