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Coin Quote by Orville Wright

“When the machine had been fastened with a wire to the track, so that it could not start until released by the operator, and the motor had been run to make sure that it was in condition, we tossed a coin to decide who should have the first trial. Wilbur won.” quote by Orville Wright
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“When the machine had been fastened with a wire to the track, so that it could not start until released by the operator, and the motor had been run to make sure that it was in condition, we tossed a coin to decide who should have the first trial. Wilbur won.”

Orville Wright

About This Quote

Source Historical account: Wright brothers' early flight tests, 1903

The quote describes a safety protocol and random selection method used before a pioneering flight trial.

In simple terms: Safety checks and chance decided the first trial.

Key Takeaway

Follow safety procedures and use fair selection.

Themes

innovation risk management history

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

historical technical

When to use this quote

  • early aviation testing
  • risk assessment
  • team decision-making

Key Concepts

Aviation experiment randomization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How did this protocol influence later aviation safety?
  • What role does randomness play in high‑risk testing?
A Different Perspective

Limited detail on broader safety implications.

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