Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Do not ascribe to malice that which can be explained by ignorance

When people have to work together or socialize together, we increasingly rely on email. This allows for more errors to be made in any kind of interpersonal relationship. Sadly, we make mistakes. All too often others interpret this as motivated by malice, when in most cases it is out of ignorance or thoughtlessness. This is a loss to all. So when you think you have been insulted, imagine how this could have been simply a clumsy communication. If you do this, it is certain that you will discover many improved or more effective relationships.

1 comment:

Jonathan said...

Yes, it can be ignorance or thoughtlessness, but it can also be the lack of a 'tone of voice' in written text.

It often happens that someone makes a casual remark intended to be light and humorous, but the recipient doesn't see the face or hear the tone of voice, and takes it too seriously.