Chesterton's Fence: A Lesson in Thinking

Chesterton's Fence: A Lesson in Thinking

"Chesterton's Fence is a principle that reminds us to look before we leap. To understand before we act. It's a cautionary reminder to understand why something is the way it is before meddling in change.

"The principle comes from a parable by G.K. Chesterton.

"'There exists in such a case a certain institution or law; let us say, for the sake of simplicity, a fence or gate erected across a road. The more modern type of reformer goes gaily up to it and says, "I don't see the use of this; let us clear it away." To which the more intelligent type of reformer will do well to answer: "If you don't see the use of it, I certainly won't let you clear it away. Go away and think. Then, when you can come back and tell me that you do see the use of it, I may allow you to destroy it."'"