QuoteProject
Rational behavior requires theory. Reactive behavior requires only reflex action.
W. Edwards Deming
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Rational behavior is guided by thought and theory, while reactive behavior is instinctive and immediate.

The quote by W. Edwards Deming emphasizes the importance of rational thought and theoretical frameworks in guiding behavior and decision-making. It suggests that while many reactions can be spontaneous and reflexive, true understanding and effective actions emerge from careful consideration and planning based on solid theories.

Themes

Rational BehaviorTheoryReactive BehaviorDecision MakingPlanning

In practice

Example use cases

In a leadership seminar to encourage thoughtful planning.

More from W. Edwards Deming

Competition should not be for a share of the market-but to expand the market.
W. Edwards DemingRead
The job can't be finished only improved to please the customer.
W. Edwards DemingRead
Don't expect smart people to listen to you without proof.
W. Edwards DemingRead
Quality begins with the intent, which is fixed by management.
W. Edwards DemingRead
Learn the basics of analytics and people will love you. If you don't have time to learn, hire someone.
W. Edwards DemingRead
Just because you can measure everything doesn't mean that you should.
W. Edwards DemingRead

Similar quotes

Knowledge is potential power. It transforms itself into actual power the moment you decisively act on it.
Robin SharmaRead
Hard work and humility are essential for spiritual sadhana.
B.K.S. IyengarRead
The height of cleverness is to be able to conceal it.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
The hardest thing is to tell the truth about oneself. One doesn't like to remember unpleasant details, but forgetting them makes one's life seem disorganized.
Marjory Stoneman DouglasRead
Pain is a relatively objective, physical phenomenon; suffering is our psychological resistance to what happens. Events may create physical pain, but they do not in themselves create suffering. Resistance creates suffering. Stress happens when your mind resists what is... The only problem in your life is your mind's resistance to life as it unfolds.
Dan MillmanRead
The wisdom to quit is all we have left.
Charles BukowskiRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.

Quote by W. Edwards Deming | QuoteProject