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Error is intimately bound up with the notion of intention…

“Error is intimately bound up with the notion of intention. The term ‘error’ can only be meaningfully applied to planned actions that fail to achieve their desired consequences without the intervention of some chance or unforeseeable agency. Two basic error types were identified: slips (and…” quote by James Reason
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““Error is intimately bound up with the notion of intention. The term ‘error’ can only be meaningfully applied to planned actions that fail to achieve their desired consequences without the intervention of some chance or unforeseeable agency. Two basic error types were identified: slips (and lapses), where the actions do not go according to plan, and mistakes, where the plan itself is inadequate to achieve its objectives.””

James Reason

About This Quote

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

Errors stem from faulty intentions or flawed plans, not just chance.

In simple terms: Errors arise from intent or plan flaws.

Key Takeaway

Improve planning and intent.

Themes

error analysis intentionality planning mistakes slips

Mood

analytical educational

Type

Failure:1 Intention:1 Mistake:1 Mistakes:1 Plan Mistakes:1 Intention Term:0 Error Types:1

When to use this quote

  • workplace safety
  • project management
  • personal decisions

Key Concepts

cognitive psychology risk management

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you detect plan flaws early?
  • What role does chance play in errors?
A Different Perspective

Not all errors fit this model.

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