I feel that people who haven't read my books and haven't…
“I feel that people who haven't read my books and haven't heard me lecture - who don't in fact know what my work is about - have been very hard on me. There is an expression in Alcoholics Anonymous called "contempt prior to investigation." I feel many people practice contempt prior to investigation.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People often dismiss ideas before they understand them, creating a bias that hinders genuine engagement.
In simple terms: Judgment without listening blocks true comprehension.
Key Takeaway
Seek understanding before forming opinions.
Themes
prejudice
communication
open-mindedness
bias
Mood
frustration
curiosity
Type
reflective
critical
When to use this quote
- reading a controversial book
- listening to a new speaker
- evaluating a policy proposal
Key Concepts
epistemic humility
social perception
Practical Applications
- Pause to ask clarifying questions
- Allocate time to explore unfamiliar viewpoints
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions do I bring to new ideas?
- How can I create space for genuine inquiry?
A Different Perspective
Even thorough investigation can be limited by personal blind spots.