Original artwork, not a still
Whenever I'm about to do something, I think, 'Would an idiot do that?' And if they would, I do not do that thing.
— The Office (U.S.) · 2005
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
The rule sounds practical until the person applying it assumes he can always identify the foolish choice. Dwight’s confidence supplies the missing complication.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for The Office (U.S.)Show the scene
In Business School, Dwight explains a rule he claims guides his decisions: imagine what an idiot would do and avoid it. His certainty gives the advice its comic character. The talking-head format allows him to present the rule without anyone immediately testing his self-assessment.
Sources (1)
- Season 3 — wording and scene referenceSeason 3Reference checked
Context reviewed
