Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

Good observation. If you're wrong, you suffer a brief moment of embarrassment. If you're right, you might prevent a disaster.

Speaking up is a no-brainer.




I don't mean to be a downer, but you could certainly cause an accident by calling out an observation which was faulty. I agree with the sentiment that you should speak up when you see something amiss, but let's not kid ourselves that, like every decision, it comes with inherent risk.


Making an aircraft go-around can never cause an accident - the missed approach path for any landing aircraft is always kept clear.


I wonder how many people have died throughout history due to embarrassment, or (similarly) going against your instinct. The number exists but is unavailable to us.

- Not having that dark mole near your privates checked out.

- Not wanting to turn the car around.

- Not walking away when those shady guys walked in.

...


Korean airlines decades ago had a huge issue with copilots not speaking up to captains when concerned. While not embarrassment - there was a lack of speaking up. IIRC they forced cultural change in order to make it less of an issue.

edit: not speaking up




Consider applying for YC's Fall 2025 batch! Applications are open till Aug 4

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: