During my tenure at the Endowment, I often found that…
“During my tenure at the Endowment, I often found that those who did us the most damage did so under the justification of helping us by 'preventing worse language.' In the military it would be called friendly fire. One ends up just as dead.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Well‑intentioned actions can cause harm, similar to friendly fire in war.
In simple terms: Good intentions may still cause damage.
Key Takeaway
Critically evaluate motives.
Themes
ethics
leadership
risk management
Mood
cautious
serious
Type
ethical
analytical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- charitable work
- military strategy
Key Concepts
unintended consequences
organizational governance
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you seen “friendly fire” in projects?
- How can safeguards be built?
A Different Perspective
Good intentions don’t guarantee good outcomes.