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Contagious Quote by Eric Hoffer

“We are more prone to generalize the bad than the good. We assume that the bad is more potent and contagious.” quote by Eric Hoffer
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“We are more prone to generalize the bad than the good. We assume that the bad is more potent and contagious.”

Eric Hoffer

About This Quote

Source Book: The True Believer, 1951

People tend to focus on negative events, assuming they spread more quickly than positive ones.

In simple terms: Bad news spreads faster than good.

Key Takeaway

Balance attention to positive stories.

Themes

psychology bias communication social dynamics

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical insightful

When to use this quote

  • marketing
  • public relations
  • community building
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

negativity bias information contagion rumor spread

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does negativity bias affect your decisions?
  • What strategies counteract this bias?
A Different Perspective

Positive narratives can also be powerful.

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