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Dangerous Quote by Margaret Thatcher

“It is always important in matters of high politics to know what you do not know. Those who think that they know, but are mistaken, and act upon their mistakes, are the most dangerous people to have in charge.” quote by Margaret Thatcher
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“It is always important in matters of high politics to know what you do not know. Those who think that they know, but are mistaken, and act upon their mistakes, are the most dangerous people to have in charge.”

Margaret Thatcher

About This Quote

Source Speech: Interview, Margaret Thatcher, 1979

Recognizing one's own ignorance in political decision‑making prevents overconfidence and dangerous policies.

In simple terms: Know what you don’t know to avoid harmful decisions.

Key Takeaway

Seek humility and counsel.

Themes

politics humility leadership

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advisory cautionary

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • corporate strategy
  • personal decision making

Key Concepts

epistemic humility risk management

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify your assumptions?
  • Who can challenge your views?
A Different Perspective

Overconfidence can still arise despite awareness.

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