Skip to content

The obvious choice isn't always the best choice, but…

“The obvious choice isn't always the best choice, but sometimes, by golly, it is. I don't stop looking as soon I find an obvious answer, but if I go on looking, and the obvious-seeming answer still seems obvious, I don't feel guilty about keeping it.” quote by Eliezer Yudkowsky
Download Open image
“The obvious choice isn't always the best choice, but sometimes, by golly, it is. I don't stop looking as soon I find an obvious answer, but if I go on looking, and the obvious-seeming answer still seems obvious, I don't feel guilty about keeping it.”

Eliezer Yudkowsky

About This Quote

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

Obvious answers can be correct; keep testing them, but don’t feel guilty if they remain obvious after further search.

In simple terms: Obvious can be right; keep checking.

Key Takeaway

Validate obvious solutions.

Themes

decision‑making critical thinking confidence

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

philosophical practical

When to use this quote

  • problem solving
  • scientific research
  • business strategy

Key Concepts

epistemic humility confirmation bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should you trust an obvious answer?
  • How to balance persistence and openness?
A Different Perspective

Over‑reliance on obviousness may miss hidden options.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Eliezer Yudkowsky

Explore all 274 Eliezer Yudkowsky quotes

More About quotes

Browse all 26,122 About quotes