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New information muddies the picture. Once we finally reach…

“New information muddies the picture. Once we finally reach a decision, we are relieved to have the uncertainty of decision making behind us. And now somebody turns up and tells us things that call the wisdom of that decision into question again. So we prefer not to listen.” quote by Dietrich Dörner
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““New information muddies the picture. Once we finally reach a decision, we are relieved to have the uncertainty of decision making behind us. And now somebody turns up and tells us things that call the wisdom of that decision into question again. So we prefer not to listen.””

Dietrich Dörner

About This Quote

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

People avoid new information after a decision because it threatens the comfort of certainty, leading to selective hearing.

In simple terms: People ignore new facts that challenge their choices.

Key Takeaway

Stay open to revisiting decisions when new data appear.

Themes

decision‑making uncertainty information overload

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

explanatory advisory

When to use this quote

  • business strategy
  • personal choices
  • policy making
  • research

Key Concepts

cognitive bias confidence feedback loops

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would happen if you welcomed contrary evidence?
  • How can you balance certainty with openness?
A Different Perspective

Avoiding new data can lock in errors.

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