Meaning: The quote "We always carry out by committee anything in which any one of us alone would be too reasonable to persist" by Frank Colby, an educator, encapsulates the concept of decision-making and collective behavior. This quote highlights the idea that individuals, when acting alone, may be more inclined to make reasonable and rational decisions. However, when they come together as a group or committee, the dynamics and interactions among the members can often lead to less rational or overly cautious decision-making processes.

The notion of decision-making by committee speaks to the dynamics of group behavior and decision-making processes. When individuals come together in a committee or group setting, various factors such as social dynamics, power struggles, and groupthink can influence the decision-making process. As a result, decisions made by committee may not always reflect the most rational or reasonable course of action.

The quote also suggests that individuals, when part of a group, may be less inclined to persist in their original, more reasonable ideas. This can occur due to the influence of group dynamics, the desire for consensus, or the fear of being seen as too assertive or unreasonable within the group. As a result, the collective decision-making process may lead to compromises and actions that are not as rational or effective as those that might have been pursued by individuals acting alone.

In a broader sense, the quote reflects the challenges and complexities of group decision-making in various contexts, including business, politics, and social organizations. It serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential pitfalls of decision-making by committee, and the need for individuals to maintain a critical and independent mindset even within group settings.

From a psychological perspective, the quote aligns with the concept of social influence and conformity. When individuals participate in group decision-making, they may be influenced by the opinions and behaviors of others, leading to a collective decision that differs from what each individual might have chosen on their own. This phenomenon is often attributed to social conformity and the pressure to adhere to the group consensus, sometimes at the expense of individual reasoning and judgment.

Moreover, the quote also touches upon the notion of risk aversion in group decision-making. Individuals within a committee may be more hesitant to take bold or decisive actions, opting instead for safer, consensus-driven choices. This risk-averse behavior can stem from a desire to avoid conflict within the group or a fear of shouldering individual responsibility for potential negative outcomes.

In conclusion, Frank Colby's quote sheds light on the complexities of group decision-making and the potential for rationality to be compromised in committee settings. It serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the dynamics of collective behavior and the challenges inherent in reaching rational decisions within group contexts. By acknowledging the limitations of decision-making by committee, individuals and organizations can strive to foster environments that encourage independent thinking, constructive debate, and the pursuit of rational, reasoned outcomes.