Roberto Grippi “There is a cult of ignorance in [name your own Country], and there has always been. The strain of anti-intellectualism has been a constant thread winding its way through our political and cultural life, nurtured by the false notion that democracy means that ‘my ignorance is just as good as your knowledge’.” (Isaac Asimov, in … Read more
Based on the analysis of 5,000 words as studied by several linguists, here below you see the percentages of different linguistic influences on the Sicilian vocabulary: Latin: 55.6%The majority of Sicilian words are derived from Latin, reflecting Sicily’s Roman heritage.Greek: 14.6%Greek influence highlights Sicily’s ancient Greek colonization and historical importance in Magna Graecia.Spanish: 13.2%The Spanish … Read more
“Unity of command is the most important principle of leadership, both in war and in business.” Unity of Command in War … In war, unity of command ensures that everyone marches (or charges) in the same direction, not because they agree but because it is hard to argue with a general holding a map and … Read more
“Not even a pig in a garden could cause as much damage as a fool!” “Quantu dannu fa un cretinu, mancu un porcu ‘nto jardinu!”(Ancient Sicilian adage) This old Sicilian wise saying highlights the chaos, destruction, or trouble that someone lacking wisdom or common sense might create, often inadvertently. In contrast, a pig in a … Read more
“Atwood’s Duck”, the most prominent, yet utterly superfluous element in any design. It is not there because it adds value, nor because anyone particularly wants it. No, the duck exists solely as a sacrificial offering to a specific kind of manager: the one who cannot resist making unnecessary changes! The concept is simple. The duck … Read more
“The longer you think about it, the bigger the bullshit you are about to say.” “Chiu longa è a pinsata, chiù grossa è a minchiata.”(Fiorello, Italian comedian) This Sicilian quote is a humorous yet insightful commentary on the nature of overthinking and communication. It suggests that when we dwell excessively on a topic, we may … Read more
“That things are as they are does not mean they must remain so.It simply means that, when the time comes to roll up one’s sleeves and start making changes, there is a price to pay.And it is at that point that the vast majority prefers to complain rather than act.” (Giovanni Falcone) This quote by … Read more
“Surprise is an event that takes place in the mind of a commander.” This citation highlights the subjective nature of surprise in military or strategic contexts. It emphasizes that surprise is not simply about unexpected actions or events in the external environment but rather about the perception and mental state of the individual experiencing it. … Read more
“If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it is a duck”. Who are we to jump to such reckless conclusions? Perhaps it is just a particularly confident chicken with a good vocal coach, or maybe a revolutionary new amphibious drone. We live in a complex world where appearances, sounds, and even … Read more
“The downside of being better than everyone else is that others are inclined to think you are arrogant.” Exceeding others in ability or excellence, while a remarkable achievement, often comes with unintended social consequences. Chief among these is the perception of arrogance or conceit by those around you.This reaction may stem from a natural human … Read more
“Our success is based on innovation and the ruthless use of technology developed by others and adapted to suit our own purposes.” (Unknown F1 team, adapted by yours truly)
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” (Leonardo da Vinci)
“Sometimes, the best solution to low morale in a company is to dismiss all the unhappy employees.” This suggestion might initially seem like a bold, no-nonsense approach—removing dissatisfaction at the source.But is it really the most effective or sustainable way to address low morale? Low morale often stems from deeper organisational issues: poor management, lack … Read more
I closely follow news from around the world. As I observe the ongoing debate about ethical standards within the American Supreme Court, a famous quote comes to mind: “Quis custodiet ipsos custodes?”(Juvenal, Satire VI) “Who controls the controllers?” This phrase poses a timeless and profound question about trust, power, and accountability. The phrase comes from … Read more
“Meraviglioso” (“Wonderful”) (music by Domenico Modugno,text by Riccardo Pazzaglia, 1968) “Meraviglioso” is a deeply poignant and uplifting song that celebrates the beauty of life, even in the face of despair. Original interpretation by Modugno:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a–FJ5g6b_w Even better, revisitation in 2008 by Negramaro:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EikicSEKi4M “It’s true, believe me, it happened,one night on a bridge,looking at the dark water,with … Read more
Italy covers just 0.5% of the Earth’s surface but is home to 0.83% of the global population. Its unique bio-climatic conditions make it the world’s leading country for biodiversity: Italy also holds 70% of the world’s artistic and cultural heritage, with the remaining 30% spread across the rest of the globe. In essence, Italy is … Read more
“A man without a smiling must not open a shop.”(Chinese proverb) This citation reflects a timeless piece of wisdom about the importance of demeanor in business and human interactions.At its core, it emphasizes the value of friendliness, warmth, and approachability, particularly in the context of commerce or customer service.A smiling face symbolizes positivity, openness, and … Read more
“The Sword of Damocles” is a famous metaphor originating from an ancient Greek legend.It symbolizes the constant and imminent threat or peril that looms over someone in a position of power or privilege. The story comes from the court of Dionysius II, a ruler of Syracuse (modern-day Sicily) in the 4th century BCE.According to the … Read more
“The trains that change your life do exist, but they aren’t waited for. They are driven.” (Unknown)
“We are all born ignorant, but one must work hard to remain stupid.” (Benjamin Franklin)