Famous quote by Edsger Dijkstra

"I mentioned the non-competitive spirit explicitly, because these days, excellence is a fashionable concept. But excellence is a competitive notion, and that is not what we are heading for: we are heading for perfection"

About this Quote

Edsger Dijkstra's quote obstacles standard beliefs about quality and perfection by providing them as distinct suitables with different inspirations and outcomes. In modern society, excellence is frequently pursued as the supreme objective-- a requirement that prioritizes superiority and competition. Attaining excellence implies going beyond others, which inherently includes a competitive framework. Individuals are not only inspired to improve however to demonstrate their capabilities versus those of others to arrive.

However, Dijkstra motivates a shift from this competitive paradigm towards the pursuit of excellence, an idea that goes beyond the boundaries of comparing oneself to others. Perfection seeks improvement and proficiency that is internally driven and measured versus an outright standard, not relative performance. It implies an intrinsic process of ruthless improvement and honing of one's abilities or work, motivated by the desire to meet the highest possible requirements.

Dijkstra's mention of the "non-competitive spirit" highlights the value of concentrating on personal development and specific benchmarks, rather than specifying success through external recognition or competition. This perspective can cause more sustainable and fulfilling advancement, as individuals are encouraged by personal worths and goals instead of the pressure to exceed peers.

In fields like software development, which was Dijkstra's world of know-how, aiming for excellence includes careful attention to detail, clearness, and precision in the creation of reputable and efficient code. It recommends a viewpoint where the quality of work is paramount, and the supreme objective is attaining the best possible result, irrespective of what others are doing.

Ultimately, by promoting for a concentrate on excellence, Dijkstra is proposing a relocation towards a culture of constant enhancement and intrinsic inspiration, where individuals are freed from the restrictions of competitors and inspired to establish their real possible individually.

More details

TagsDay

About the Author

Netherland Flag This quote is written / told by Edsger Dijkstra between May 11, 1930 and August 6, 2002. He was a famous Scientist from Netherland. The author also have 25 other quotes.
Go to author profile

Similar Quotes