On action following principles.............

But the exhortation that all development discussions must lead within five minutes to a recommended philanthropic action inhibits clear thinking.  Actions follow principles and understanding. . . . There is a fear of inaction and indifference on the tragic problems of global poverty, which I share.  But wrong actions are equally a danger, and they may create more indifference and disillusionment when they fail.  It is critical to get the principles of action right before acting . . .

-William Easterly,  The Tyranny of Experts:  Economists, Dictators, and The Forgotten Rights Of The Poor