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Change Quote by William H. Whyte

“People very rarely think in groups; they talk together, they exchange information, they adjudicate, they make compromises. But they do not think; they do not create.” quote by William H. Whyte
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“People very rarely think in groups; they talk together, they exchange information, they adjudicate, they make compromises. But they do not think; they do not create.”

William H. Whyte

About This Quote

Source Book: The Organization Man, 1956

Groups exchange information and compromise but rarely engage in deep, creative thinking.

In simple terms: Groups talk and compromise but seldom create.

Key Takeaway

Encourage collaborative creativity, not just discussion.

Themes

collaboration creativity decision‑making

Mood

critical inquisitive

Type

organizational psychological

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • brainstorm sessions
  • project planning

Key Concepts

group dynamics innovation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can teams foster true creativity?
  • What structures prevent mere compromise?
A Different Perspective

Groupthink can suppress dissenting ideas.

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