One of the little-celebrated powers of Presidents (and other high government officials) is to listen to their critics with just enough sympathy to ensure their silence.
John Kenneth GalbraithRead
Faced with having to change our views or prove that there is no need to do so, most of us immediately get busy on the proof.
Interpretation
What this quote means
People often resist changing their opinions and instead seek arguments to support their existing views.
This quote by John Kenneth Galbraith highlights a common human tendency to cling to personal beliefs, especially when confronted with the possibility of changing them. Rather than reflecting on the validity of their views, individuals often choose to fortify them with evidence, demonstrating a reluctance to embrace change or consider alternative perspectives.
Themes
ChangeBeliefsPerspectivesResistanceProof
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about climate change, one might say, 'As John Kenneth Galbraith noted, many people prefer to prove their own views rather than reconsider them.'
More from John Kenneth Galbraith
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People of privilege will always risk their complete destruction rather than surrender any material part of their advantage.
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