I think the written word is probably the best medium of communication because you have time to reflect, you have time to choose your words, to get your sentences exactly right. Whereas when you're being interviewed, say, you have to talk on the fly, you have to improvise, you can change sentences around, and they're not exactly right.

Richard Dawkins’ quote reflects his belief in the superiority of the written word as a medium of communication. He argues that writing allows for reflection, giving individuals the time to carefully select their words and structure their sentences to convey their message with precision. This contrasts with spoken communication, especially in interviews, where one must improvise and speak spontaneously, often without the luxury of revising or refining sentences in real-time.

The origin of this quote likely stems from Dawkins’ extensive work as an author, scientist, and public intellectual, where he has both written extensively and participated in many interviews. As a writer, Dawkins would value the ability to craft messages carefully, ensuring clarity and accuracy. In contrast, interviews or live discussions often involve rapid responses that may lack the same level of thoughtfulness or precision, making written communication more appealing for those seeking to present their ideas with careful consideration.

Dawkins highlights the limitations of spoken communication, which, by its nature, can be more prone to errors or imprecise wording. When speaking, one cannot always express thoughts as clearly or concisely as when writing. While verbal communication can be more spontaneous and dynamic, it lacks the exactness and deliberation that writing offers, especially when discussing complex ideas or arguments.

Ultimately, Dawkins’ quote underscores the advantages of the written word, especially when accuracy and careful expression are important. It speaks to the power of writing as a tool for clear, intentional communication, where each word can be selected with purpose and each sentence carefully constructed. For Dawkins, writing is the ideal way to convey complex thoughts and ideas, allowing for greater precision and reflection than spoken communication often allows.