Complexes Quote by Ellen Goodman
“There is so much more information about the scientific world than there was a generation ago that we have all increased our opportunities for ignorance. There are more things not to know. ... The machinery that we deal with is so much more complex that it is possible to become dysfunctional at a much higher level of performance.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Age of Information Overload, The New York Times, 1995
Abundant information expands knowledge but also increases ignorance, as complexity can overwhelm and cause dysfunction at high performance levels.
In simple terms: More info can make us less informed.
Key Takeaway
Simplify and prioritize to avoid overload.
Themes
information overload
ignorance
complexity
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- research
- education
- technology adoption
- policy making
Key Concepts
cognitive limits
systemic dysfunction
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance knowledge and ignorance?
- What strategies reduce functional overload?
A Different Perspective
Complex systems may still fail despite simplification.
