In her book "A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century," Barbara W. Tuchman highlights the rarity of admitting mistakes and recognizing when to stop pursuing a failing endeavor. This behavior is uncommon on a personal level and virtually nonexistent at the state level. Leaders often prioritize their perception of power or their personal ambitions, which can lead them to ignore reality and make detrimental decisions.

Tuchman suggests that these leaders operate with a narrow view, focused solely on their goals, which can result in prolonged suffering and conflict. By failing to acknowledge errors, both individuals and states risk compounding their problems rather than correcting their course. The blinkered vision of those in power can lead to disastrous consequences, as they become entrenched in their beliefs and ambitions without assessing the broader implications of their choices.