The most dangerous phrase in the language is, 'We've always done it this way.'
In plain words
The most dangerous sentence of all is that it has always been done this way.
Where these words come from
- 88% sureThese words were traced back to where they first appeared. That source is listed below.
- Grace Hopper interviews — earliest strong match Computerworld, 1976 ("the most dangerous phrase a DP manager can use is 'We've always done it that way'"), repeated in later interviews (1981, 1987)
More on invention
Give me a lever long enough and a fulcrum on which to place it, and I shall move the world.
ArchimedesI have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.
Thomas EdisonSpeech has allowed the communication of ideas, enabling human beings to work together to build the impossible.
Stephen HawkingThat brain of mine is something more than merely mortal, as time will show.
Ada LovelaceIt is possible to fly without motors, but not without knowledge and skill.
Wilbur WrightWhat is chiefly needed is skill rather than machinery.Wilbur Wright
ArchimedesI have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.Thomas EdisonSpeech has allowed the communication of ideas, enabling human beings to work together to build the impossible.Stephen HawkingThat brain of mine is something more than merely mortal, as time will show.Ada LovelaceIt is possible to fly without motors, but not without knowledge and skill.Wilbur WrightWhat is chiefly needed is skill rather than machinery.Wilbur WrightMore science
See allNothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood.
Marie CurieOne never notices what has been done; one can only see what remains to be done.Marie CurieBe less curious about people and more curious about ideas.Marie CurieLook deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.
Albert EinsteinThe important thing is not to stop questioning.Albert EinsteinImagination is more important than knowledge.Albert Einstein
Marie CurieOne never notices what has been done; one can only see what remains to be done.Marie CurieBe less curious about people and more curious about ideas.Marie CurieLook deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.Albert EinsteinThe important thing is not to stop questioning.Albert EinsteinImagination is more important than knowledge.Albert Einstein