The article critiques the use of absolute statements like "never" and "always" by political figures, using the recent power outage in Spain as a prime example. It argues that such statements, while intended to reassure, can create a false sense of security and ultimately undermine trust.
Several examples are used to illustrate this point, including claims about nuclear power plant safety, airplane crashes, banking stability, and the irreversibility of democracy. The author contrasts these claims with historical instances where such certainties have been proven false.
The central argument focuses on the inherent unpredictability of complex systems, especially technological ones. The article suggests that focusing on probabilities and risk assessment is a more responsible and realistic approach than making absolute claims about the impossibility of certain events.
The author concludes by emphasizing the need for transparent communication about potential risks and probabilities, rather than relying on potentially misleading pronouncements of certainty.