Absurd Quote by Harriet Lerner
“I'm a good example of wanting to apologize only for my precise share of a problem--as I calculate it, of course--and I expect my husband Steve to apologize for his share, also as I calculate it. Since we're not always of one mind on the math, it can lead to the theater of the absurd.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Dance of Anger by Harriet Lerner, 1985
People often try to quantify blame, turning conflict into a cold calculation that can feel absurd.
In simple terms: Blame is reduced to math, making arguments feel ridiculous.
Key Takeaway
Avoid turning emotions into equations.
Themes
relationships
communication
conflict
emotional intelligence
Mood
frustrated
reflective
ironic
Type
advice
psychology
relationship
When to use this quote
- marriage counseling
- family meetings
- workplace disputes
- friendship arguments
Key Concepts
blame allocation
calculation
absurdity
Questions to Reflect On
- How does turning blame into numbers affect empathy?
- Can you see the issue beyond the math?
A Different Perspective
Quantifying blame can ignore underlying feelings and empathy.
