Credibility Quote by James Lileks
“Look. Every partisan in every party has to learn one thing: Sometimes your people are wrong. To paraphrase an old retort, saying "My party, right or wrong" is like saying "My Kennedy, drunk or sober." Credibility is earned, and standing up and saying "Fie!" now and then reinforces your truthfulness.”
About This Quote
Source Column: The Daily Dose, 2018
Leaders must admit mistakes; acknowledging errors builds credibility and honesty, preventing blind partisan loyalty.
In simple terms: Admitting errors builds trust.
Key Takeaway
Own up when wrong.
Themes
integrity
politics
leadership
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
ethical
practical
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- public statements
- debates
- media interviews
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
ethical communication
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you corrected a mistaken belief?
- How do you handle backlash after admitting error?
A Different Perspective
Admitting errors can be politically risky and may be exploited.
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