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There are only two industries that refer to their customers as 'users'.
Edward Tufte
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote critiques the terminology used in certain industries, highlighting a dehumanizing aspect of how they view their customers.

Edward Tufte's quote points out that only two industries, namely technology and drugs, classify their customers or clients as 'users'. This observation invites reflection on the way these industries may perceive individuals more as tools to be utilized rather than as people with their own needs and experiences, suggesting a potential disconnection in the relationship between service providers and consumers.

Themes

UsersCustomersTechnologyDehumanizationPerception

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about ethical business practices, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of viewing customers as individuals.

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If you’re told what to look for, you can’t see anything else.
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