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Best intentions Quote by Jim Frederick

“Human organizations are flawed because humans are flawed. Even with the best intentions, men make errors in judgment and initiate courses of action that are counterproductive to their self-interest or the completion of the mission.” quote by Jim Frederick
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““Human organizations are flawed because humans are flawed. Even with the best intentions, men make errors in judgment and initiate courses of action that are counterproductive to their self-interest or the completion of the mission.””

Jim Frederick

About This Quote

Source Book: “The Edge of Reason” by Jim Frederick, 2014

Human institutions inherit human imperfections; good intentions often lead to flawed decisions that harm goals.

In simple terms: Organizations fail because people are imperfect.

Key Takeaway

Build systems that check human error.

Themes

human error organizational flaws intentions

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical practical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • team projects
  • strategic planning

Key Concepts

decision theory systems design

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you design safeguards?
  • What role does accountability play?
A Different Perspective

Over‑reliance on intentions can ignore structural issues.

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