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A physicist visits a colleague and notices a horseshoe…

“A physicist visits a colleague and notices a horseshoe hanging on the wall above the entrance. 'Do you really believe that a horseshoe brings luck?' he asks. 'No,' replies the colleague, 'but I've been told that it works even if you don't believe in it.'” quote by Niels Bohr
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“A physicist visits a colleague and notices a horseshoe hanging on the wall above the entrance. 'Do you really believe that a horseshoe brings luck?' he asks. 'No,' replies the colleague, 'but I've been told that it works even if you don't believe in it.'”

Niels Bohr

About This Quote

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

Belief and superstition can influence perception of luck, even without rational basis.

In simple terms: Even without belief, people may think lucky charms work.

Key Takeaway

Question your assumptions about luck.

Themes

belief superstition psychology

Mood

curious skeptical

Type

anecdotal philosophical

When to use this quote

  • sports rituals
  • personal talismans
  • office décor
  • daily habits

Key Concepts

cognitive bias placebo effect

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you rely on any lucky objects?
  • How does belief shape outcomes?
A Different Perspective

Superstitions can affect behavior even when logically dismissed.

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