Jeopardy Knowledge sails on the Neutral Statements
What is a neutral statement?
the neutral statement “is compatible with any expression of either approval or disapproval of the facts which the statement claims to report”
A.Phillips | Oxford Press | Analysis |Vol. 24, No. 3 (Jan., 1964)
In other words, neutral statements don’t mean anything. You don’t take a stand. It’s hiding by linguistics.
They work in environments based on fear. If you are always ready to “cover your ass,” there is no better way than saying something that means nothing. No one gets mad, and you have wiggle room.
As a result, ambiguity, the natural enemy of direction, has a “run of the place.” While everyone is saying nothing, the connection to work dwindles. Why would I care? Nothing means anything, and anything means nothing.
If you need an example, take a look at many companies mission statements.
“It is our business to continue to enthusiastically revolutionize revolutionary leadership skills to stay competitive in tomorrow’s world.”
That means absolutely nothing. This mission statement could work for IBM, Nintendo, Berkshire Hathaway, or Wal-Mart.
Those are four completely different companies.
Leaders set direction by making their statements say something.
Don’t be a wandering generality.
From the desk of Adam Thomas 