Courtesy Quote by Esme Raji Codell
“If you give people an idea these days, they just think you are sharing it with them so they can critique it, play devil's advocate, and so on. It doesn't occur to them that they might help or get enthused or at least have the courtesy to get out of your way.”
About This Quote
People often treat ideas as debate fodder rather than opportunities for collaboration or enthusiasm.
In simple terms: Ideas are seen as critique targets, not collaborative chances.
Key Takeaway
Encourage open, supportive dialogue.
Themes
communication
collaboration
mindset
Mood
frustrated
hopeful
Type
advice
observational
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- brainstorm sessions
- creative workshops
- feedback loops
Key Concepts
psychology
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you frame ideas to invite partnership?
- What signals make others feel safe to engage positively?
A Different Perspective
Some audiences may still resist or misinterpret ideas despite a supportive tone.
![“This does not mean that the profession is about to abandon Darwin forever or indorse [sic] my views publicly. The situation remains much as it was: the inner circles are full of doubt, but the public utterances are confident. The doubts may be greater now and the confidence less serene, but it…” quote by Norman Macbeth](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7bf/norman-macbeth-47158_abandon_this-does-not-mean-that-the-profession-i_1631513.jpg)
