---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: In foreign policy, the only thing worse…"
description: "\"In foreign policy, the only thing worse than not doing something is doing something that fails or makes the situation worse.\" — Kathleen Troia McFarland"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/be0/kathleen-troia-mcfarland-19299_doing_in-foreign-policy-the-only-thing-worse-t_3221588.jpg"
---

#  In foreign policy, the only thing worse than not doing…

![“In foreign policy, the only thing worse than not doing something is doing something that fails or makes the situation worse.” quote by Kathleen Troia McFarland](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/be0/kathleen-troia-mcfarland-19299_doing_in-foreign-policy-the-only-thing-worse-t_3221588.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/be0/kathleen-troia-mcfarland-19299_doing_in-foreign-policy-the-only-thing-worse-t_3221588.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/be0/kathleen-troia-mcfarland-19299_doing_in-foreign-policy-the-only-thing-worse-t_3221588.jpg)

> “In foreign policy, the only thing worse than not doing something is doing something that fails or makes the situation worse.”

[Kathleen Troia McFarland](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/kathleen-troia-mcfarland/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Inaction can be dangerous, but misguided action can cause greater harm.

**In simple terms:** Doing nothing is risky; bad actions are riskier.

Key Takeaway

We actions carefully and assess impact.

Themes

policy risk decision-making

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

advisory strategic

When to use this quote

- government decisions
- military interventions
- environmental regulations
- foreign aid

Key Concepts

consequentialism strategic planning

Questions to Reflect On

- How can we better evaluate potential outcomes?
- When should we choose restraint over intervention?

A Different Perspective

Even well‑intended actions may backfire if not properly evaluated.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★   No ratings yet

[Foreign policy](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/foreign-policy/)

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