Can not Quote by W. Edwards Deming
“You can not hear what you do not understand.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Out of the Crisis, 1982
Understanding is a prerequisite for effective listening and communication.
In simple terms: You must understand before you can listen.
Key Takeaway
Seek comprehension before responding.
Themes
communication
understanding
learning
Mood
thoughtful
practical
Type
educational
professional
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- customer service
- training sessions
Key Concepts
cognitive psychology
systems thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- What steps ensure true understanding?
- How do you verify comprehension?
A Different Perspective
Misunderstanding can still occur despite effort.
![“I seen it over an' over—a guy talkin' to another guy and it don't make no difference if he don't hear or understand. The thing is, they're talkin', or they're settin' still not talkin'. It don't make no difference, no difference. [...] George can tell you screwy things, and it don't matter. It's…” quote by John Steinbeck](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cb5/john-steinbeck-71_differences_i-seen-it-over-an-over-a-guy-talkin-to-a_1927294.jpg)
![“He [Moliere] pleases all the world, but cannot please himself.” quote by Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/812/nicolas-boileau-despreaux-1070_can-not_he-moliere-pleases-all-the-world-but-can_20665.jpg)
