Denied Quote by Russell L. Ackoff
“Nothing is harder to topple than a fact that supports a deeply held prejudice denied by its holder.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Recreating the Corporation, Russell L. Ackoff, 1970
Facts that back deep biases are extremely resistant to challenge, even when the holder denies them.
In simple terms: Bias‑backed facts are hard to dislodge.
Key Takeaway
Question your assumptions and seek evidence.
Themes
bias
prejudice
truth
cognitive dissonance
Mood
thoughtful
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- political debate
- scientific review
- personal relationships
- media analysis
Key Concepts
confirmation bias
motivational reasoning
epistemic closure
Questions to Reflect On
- What facts have you dismissed because they conflict with your beliefs?
- How can you test a belief without bias?
A Different Perspective
Even strong evidence may be ignored if it threatens identity.
![“Cizek came to Vienna [from Leitmeritz, a small town in Bohemia, then Austrian] when he was twenty [in 1885], and entered the Academy of Fine Arts. He lodged with a poor family, where, fortunately, there were children. These children saw him painting and drawing, and they wanted, as Cizek has so…” quote by Russell L. Ackoff](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5d1/russell-l-ackoff-12928_art_cizek-came-to-vienna-from-leitmeritz-a-s_694148.jpg)
