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Men often oppose a thing merely because they have had no agency in planning it, or because it may have been planned by those whom they dislike.
Alexander Hamilton
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Interpretation

What this quote means

People frequently resist ideas not because of their merit, but due to their lack of involvement or dislike for the originator.

This quote by Alexander Hamilton suggests that opposition to certain ideas or proposals often stems from personal biases rather than their actual value. It highlights how individuals may reject concepts simply because they feel excluded from the decision-making process or harbor negative feelings toward those who proposed them, illustrating the importance of inclusivity in discussions and planning.

Themes

OppositionPlanningInvolvementBiasDecision-Making

In practice

Example use cases

In a meeting where new policies are introduced, one might quote Hamilton to highlight resistance from those feeling excluded.

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When men, engaged in unjustifiable pursuits, are aware that obstructions may come from a quarter which bare apprehension of opposition from doing what they would with eagerness rush into if no such external impediments were to be feared.
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The people are turbulent and changing; they seldom judge right or make good decision.
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The true principle of a republic is that the people should choose whom they please to govern them. Representation is imperfect, in proportion as the current of popular favor is checked. The great source of free government, popular election, should be perfectly pure, and the most unbounded liberty allowed.
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