“Better is the enemy of good.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
Quote
“Better is the enemy of good.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s caution against perfectionism and the risks of overreaching when something is already sufficient. He suggests that striving for an ideal “better” can undermine or even destroy what is already “good.” This principle applies to various aspects of life, where the pursuit of improvement can lead to unnecessary complications, delays, or unintended negative consequences.
In modern contexts, this idea resonates with the concept of diminishing returns, where excessive effort or refinement yields little benefit and might even result in setbacks. For instance, in decision-making, constantly seeking better options can lead to indecision or missed opportunities, a phenomenon known as “analysis paralysis.” Voltaire’s words remind us to recognize and appreciate when something is “good enough” rather than risking its loss in pursuit of unattainable perfection.
A specific example of this principle can be observed in product development or creative projects. An overly ambitious desire to perfect a design or feature can delay release or make the outcome overly complex, diminishing its value. Voltaire’s quote encourages balance, suggesting that recognizing the value of “good” can often be the wisest choice.
