Rational Quote by Donald A. Norman
““Could we ever switch to this or any of the many other rational systems? Unlikely: tradition is difficult to overcome.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on Design Thinking, 1990s
Changing entrenched habits is harder than adopting new rational systems.
In simple terms: Tradition resists change.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge resistance when proposing new methods.
Themes
change
tradition
rationality
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- organizational reform
- product design
- policy making
Key Concepts
psychology
behavioral economics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you respect tradition while introducing innovation?
- What incentives ease the shift?
A Different Perspective
Even rational arguments may fail against deep‑rooted customs.
![“Hypertext makes a virtue out of lack of organization, allowing ideas and thoughts to be juxtaposed at will. [...] The advent of hypertext is apt to make writing much more difficult, not easier. Good writing, that is.” quote by Donald A. Norman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/662/donald-a-norman-6862_advent_hypertext-makes-a-virtue-out-of-lack-of_51804.jpg)
