When you question a man's motives, when you say they are…
“When you question a man's motives, when you say they are acting out of greed, they are in the pocket of an interest group, et cetera. It's awful hard to reach consensus. It's awful hard to reach across the table and shake hands. No matter how bitterly you disagree, though, it is always possible if you question judgment and not motive.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Advocates focusing on decisions rather than motives to achieve consensus despite disagreements.
In simple terms: Judge actions, not intentions, to find agreement.
Key Takeaway
Judge actions, not motives.
Themes
dialogue
consensus
politics
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- negotiations
- policy making
- team meetings
Key Concepts
critical thinking
conflict resolution
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you separate motive from action?
- When is motive relevant?
A Different Perspective
Motives often influence actions; ignoring them can be naive.