Curiosity is a disciplined form of empathy is a game-changing way to reframe how we connect. It forces us to pause our own assumptions and genuinely seek to understand another person’s world before we ever form a conclusion. This simple shift from knowing to asking is where real connection begins.
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Meaning
At its core, this quote tells us that true curiosity isn’t just idle wondering; it’s an active, intentional practice of seeking to understand others before we judge them.
Explanation
Let’s break this down, because it’s deceptively simple. We often think of empathy as this warm, fuzzy feeling you either have or you don’t. But Brown is saying, no—it’s a skill. And the foundational skill is curiosity. The discipline part is the hard work. It’s the part that stops you mid-sentence when you’re about to jump to a conclusion and instead makes you ask a question. It’s the muscle you flex when you’re frustrated with a colleague and you choose to say, “Help me understand your process here,” rather than, “You’re doing this wrong.” It’s the ultimate antidote to assumption.
Quote Summary
| Context | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Original Language | English (3668) |
| Category | Skill (416) |
| Topics | curiosity (46), dialogue (12), listening (91) |
| Literary Style | didactic (370), succinct (151) |
| Emotion / Mood | calm (491), realistic (354) |
| Overall Quote Score | 65 (29) |
Origin & Factcheck
This insight comes directly from Brené Brown’s 2004 book, Women & Shame: Reaching Out, Speaking Truths, which was published in the United States. You might sometimes see it floating around unattributed, but its home is firmly in her early, groundbreaking work on shame and vulnerability.
Attribution Summary
| Context | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Author | Brene Brown (257) |
| Source Type | Book (4032) |
| Source/Book Name | Women & Shame: Reaching Out, Speaking Truths (39) |
| Origin Timeperiod | 21st Century (1892) |
| Original Language | English (3668) |
| Authenticity | Verified (4032) |
Author Bio
Dr Brene Brown is the author of books such as Daring Greatly and The Power of Vulnerability. The TED talk and Netflix production based on her research reached out to millions of audience. She researches effects of courage and vulnerability in shaping people's work and relationships. She leads the Brené Brown Education and Research Group and provides evidence-based insights into practical tools to help people train themselves
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Where is this quotation located?
| Quotation | Curiosity is a disciplined form of empathy; it asks before it concludes |
| Book Details | Publication Year: 2004; (other edition details unknown) |
| Where is it? | Approximate page from 2004 Hazelden edition, Section: Curiosity over Judgment |