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Ignorance Quote by Penny Reid

“Maybe the answer is: Don’t be an asshole, think before you open your trap, take responsibility for your words. Meaning, apologize when you’re wrong and correct yourself moving forward—and don’t constantly look for reasons to be offended and police well-meaning people’s words. We want folks to talk…” quote by Penny Reid
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““Maybe the answer is: Don’t be an asshole, think before you open your trap, take responsibility for your words. Meaning, apologize when you’re wrong and correct yourself moving forward—and don’t constantly look for reasons to be offended and police well-meaning people’s words. We want folks to talk to each other, right? Not just hang out with like-minded people all the time. Everyone is ignorant about something, and everyone is offended by something. If people can’t have a calm, respectful dialogue without being hurt by ignorance, or without offending with insensitivity, then what the hell are we supposed to do? Surround ourselves with robots who don’t challenge our ideas?””

Penny Reid

About This Quote

Source Novel: “The Lying Life of Adults”, 2020

Encourages honest, respectful dialogue and personal accountability in conversation.

In simple terms: Speak responsibly and listen openly.

Key Takeaway

Think before speaking, apologize, and engage diverse perspectives.

Themes

communication respect personal growth

Mood

reflective empathetic

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • online forums
  • family discussions
  • public debates
  • educational workshops

Key Concepts

civility self‑reflection dialogue dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What habits can you adopt to improve listening?
  • How do you handle being offended?
A Different Perspective

People may resist self‑criticism or feel attacked.

4.3 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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