What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not knowledge in pursuit of the child.
George Bernard ShawRead
The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Misunderstandings occur when people assume they understand each other without actually communicating effectively.
George Bernard Shaw highlights a crucial aspect of communication: the assumption that mere speaking leads to understanding. Often, people believe they have conveyed their thoughts clearly, yet misunderstandings arise because the recipient may not have truly grasped the message. This quote serves as a reminder for individuals to ensure clarity in their communications rather than relying on the illusion that words alone suffice.
Themes
CommunicationUnderstandingMisunderstandingIllusionClarity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used at a workshop on effective communication to underscore the importance of clear messaging.
More from George Bernard Shaw
All quotes βMarriage is good enough for the lower classes: they have facilities for desertion that are denied to us.
George Bernard ShawRead
Forgive him, for he believes that the customs of his tribe are the laws of nature!
George Bernard ShawRead
Those who talk most about the blessings of marriage and the constancy of its vows are the very people who declare that if the chain were broken and the prisoners left free to choose, the whole social fabric would fly asunder. You cannot have the argument both ways. If the prisoner is happy, why lock him in? If he is not, why pretend that he is?
George Bernard ShawRead
Treat a friend as a person who may someday become your enemy; an enemy as a person who may someday become your friend.
George Bernard ShawRead
The happiness of credulity is a cheap and dangerous quality.
George Bernard ShawRead
Similar quotes
The ability to speak well is the shortcut to distinction.
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Self-expression must pass into communication for its fulfillment.
Pearl S. BuckRead
So if you aspire to be a good conversationali st, be an attentive listener. To be interesting, be interested. Ask questions that other persons will enjoy answering. Encourage them to talk about themselves and their accomplishments
Dale CarnegieRead
A speech is something you say so as to distract attention from what you do not say.
William StaffordRead
I don't know the rules of grammar... If you're trying to persuade people to do something, or buy something, it seems to me you should use their language, the language they use every day, the language in which they think. We try to write in the vernacular.
David OgilvyRead
Speak from your mind and people will hear you with their mind. Speak from your heart and people will hear you with their heart.
Marianne WilliamsonRead