"Action learning particularly obliges subjects to become aware of their own value systems, by demanding that the real problems tackled carry some risk of personal failure."

"For doing, or action, calls for commitment or true belief, while talking, or argument, calls only for intelligence or quickness of wit."

"…in having to draw upon one's commitment one is forced to enquire into what one really believes, as distinct from what one may claim to believe while arguing in the seminar or at the case-study."

"It is development of the self, not merely development by the self."

"Thus, we may more accurately describe action learning as development of the self by the mutual support of equals..."

"It was the interest that all displayed in the way totally fresh questions would be unexpectedly raised."

"....those best able to help in developing the self are those comrades in adversity who also struggle to understand themselves..."

“…freedom from teachers, from any form of printed syllabus or regulations, from any fixed institution, or even from any literature save the most occasional ... not even a case study or business game”

“… responsible action is, in itself, an effective learning process.”

"The place taken by action learning… is to bring home the consequences of what one has actually done..."

“Thus it is that action learning does not pretend to supply the subject with much fresh cognitive knowledge; it is sufficient to help him use more effectively what he already has, and to reinterpret the experiences of yesterday in the light of tomorrow."

"It taught me to be more interested in any ambiguity other persons raised with me than in the replies they gave to enquiries I might put to them."

“Our real need is to look at the reality around us and say “Why is it that I am so unable to do anything about the mess we are now in?' And to ask “Could I meet other people elsewhere who are also saying the same?' We will not make progress until individuals recognise that they have difficulties in doing what they are doing . The only way to understand those difficulties is by discussing your troubles… and your inabilities with others who are ready to talk about theirs."

"It is soon discovered, in most of such arguments, that the diffidence of the fellow derives, not from lack of objective information, but from his own internal fears or misgivings."