Defining Quote by Margaret Atwood
“I never say I'm an "ist" of any kind unless I know how the other person is defining it.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, 2015
One should only claim a label after understanding how others define it.
In simple terms: Know definitions before labeling.
Key Takeaway
Clarify terms first.
Themes
communication
identity
language
Mood
critical
inquisitive
Type
educational
ethical
When to use this quote
- Debates
- team meetings
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Semantic clarity
social labeling
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure shared understanding?
- When might a label be useful?
A Different Perspective
Labels can be limiting if misunderstood.
![“I never left my roots. You can identify me as someone that didn't become high and mighty. Humility is a defining [trait] all of us can forever learn, and I try to be as humble as anyone can be.” quote by Serena Williams](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/517/serena-williams-1589_defining_i-never-left-my-roots-you-can-identify-m_17115.jpg)
