Skip to content

People know what they do; frequently they know why they do…

“People know what they do; frequently they know why they do what they do; but what they don't know is what what they do does.” quote by Michel Foucault
Download Open image
“People know what they do; frequently they know why they do what they do; but what they don't know is what what they do does.”

Michel Foucault

About This Quote

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

People understand their actions and motives, yet often miss the impact of those actions.

In simple terms: We often overlook the consequences of our deeds.

Key Takeaway

Consider the effects of what you do.

Themes

self-awareness consequence psychology

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • workplace decisions
  • public policy
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

social theory behavioral impact

Questions to Reflect On

  • What outcomes of your actions go unnoticed?
  • How can you become more aware of your influence?
A Different Perspective

Impact may be indirect and hard to measure.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Michel Foucault

Explore all 272 Michel Foucault quotes

More Doe quotes

Browse all 25,574 Doe quotes