Believe Quote by Duncan Green
“There's a tendency for people who believe passionately in something to be so convinced of their rightness that if they just repeat themselves a lot at the person, that will convince them. And that hasn't worked on things like immigration or trade deals.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public policy discussion, 2023
People often think repeating arguments convinces others, but strong convictions can make them resistant, especially on complex issues like immigration and trade.
In simple terms: Repeating ideas doesn't always change minds, especially on contentious topics.
Key Takeaway
Avoid over‑reliance on repetition; seek dialogue.
Themes
communication
politics
conviction
resistance
Mood
frustrated
reflective
Type
advice
analytical
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- community meetings
- media interviews
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
confirmation bias
polarization
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you engage someone with opposing views constructively?
- What alternative strategies foster mutual understanding?
A Different Perspective
Repetition can entrench positions rather than persuade.
![“Some kinds of activists are more willing to try stuff out, see if works and think on their feet, but some of the people who are working on [change] find that very difficult: They've been schooled into thinking you have to come up with the perfect plan in advance. It has become a bit technocratic.” quote by Duncan Green](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d17/duncan-green-20105_activist_some-kinds-of-activists-are-more-willing_57391.jpg)
