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Accepting Quote by Jon Postel

“Be conservative in its sending behavior, and liberal in its receiving behavior.” quote by Jon Postel
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“Be conservative in its sending behavior, and liberal in its receiving behavior.”

Jon Postel

About This Quote

Source Technical Writing: RFC 791, 1981

Encourages a balanced network approach: be cautious sending data but generous receiving.

In simple terms: Send carefully, receive openly.

Key Takeaway

Adopt a cautious sending, generous receiving stance.

Themes

network etiquette communication protocols

Mood

analytical practical

Type

technical guideline

When to use this quote

  • email
  • peer‑to‑peer
  • API design
  • data sharing

Key Concepts

information theory reciprocity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance caution and generosity in digital communication?
  • What risks arise from being too liberal in receiving?
A Different Perspective

Excessive openness can expose security risks.

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