Bad idea Quote by Benjamin R. Barber
““...defining what is important solely by what can be measured is a bad idea - like looking for lost keys not down a dark sidewalk where they were lost, but across the street under the lamppost where the light is better.””
About This Quote
Source Book: “Jihad vs. McWorld” or similar political theory text
Warns against reducing importance solely to measurable metrics, urging broader perspective beyond easy visibility
In simple terms: Don’t rely only on easy measurements for importance
Key Takeaway
Look beyond obvious metrics for true value
Themes
critical thinking
measurement
philosophy
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
Type
academic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- research design
- business strategy
Key Concepts
epistemology
social theory
decision making
Questions to Reflect On
- What important aspects are missed by focusing on metrics?
- How can we balance measurable data with qualitative insight?
A Different Perspective
May lack concrete alternatives for measurement
![“Scientists will say with conviction - and they are right - that "there are no technical or economic barriers to achieving sustainability." ... Many [market players] understand the science of climate change perfectly well; they are not deniers and don't need to be. They are not ignorant, certainly…” quote by Benjamin R. Barber](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3ba/benjamin-r-barber-71530_change_scientists-will-say-with-conviction-and_1065739.jpg)
