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That had to be the answer. When you heard hoofbeats, you…

“That had to be the answer. When you heard hoofbeats, you didn't think zebras.” quote by Stephen King
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““That had to be the answer. When you heard hoofbeats, you didn't think zebras.””

Stephen King

About This Quote

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

Uses a metaphor about assuming zebras when hearing hoofbeats to illustrate how expectations shape perception, warning against over‑analysis.

In simple terms: Expectations bias perception.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions.

Themes

perception bias expectation critical thinking

Mood

intrigued thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • decision making
  • investigation
  • everyday judgment

Key Concepts

psychology literature

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you check your assumptions?
  • When might intuition be reliable?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex reasoning.

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