We are all ruled in what we do by impulses; and these…
“We are all ruled in what we do by impulses; and these impulses are so organized that our actions in general serve for our self preservation and that of the race. What the customer demands is last year's model, cheaper. To find out what the customer needs you have to understand what the customer is doing as well as he understands it. Then you build what he needs and you educate him to the fact that he needs it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human impulses drive actions that preserve self and species; understanding customers’ behavior lets us create and educate them about true needs.
In simple terms: Our instincts shape actions; knowing customers helps us serve them.
Key Takeaway
Study behavior, design for real needs.
Themes
design
consumer behavior
psychology
ethics
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- product development
- marketing strategy
- customer research
Key Concepts
behavioral economics
design thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we uncover hidden customer needs?
- What ethical limits exist in shaping demand?
A Different Perspective
Customers may resist change even when educated.