When the Spanish National Police got the real perpetrator, an Algerian named Ouhnane Daoud, the FBI had to admit its mistake.

FORBES: Forensic evidence doesn't always tell the truth.

"This decision by the PSNI to issue an unreserved and unconditional apology to myself and my wife and family for the indignity and trauma inflicted on us by this unwarranted raid on our home vindicates what I said at the time - the PSNI got it wrong and should publicly admit their mistake, " he said.

BBC: Derry mayor wants officer who ordered search sacked

When you are the world's greatest central banker, after all, you should be able to admit the odd mistake.

ECONOMIST: Who could fill Alan Greenspan's shoes?

Some doctors who have supported Avandia may be reluctant to admit they made a mistake.

FORBES: Six Reasons Avandia Could Stay On the Market

The lesson that I learned was that when you make a mistake, admit it as soon as possible.

FORBES: Google's Susan Wojcicki Takes Lead Of Engineering And Ads. She Wants To Talk About Chickens

One difference between an okay boss and a great boss is that the great boss will admit that he made a mistake and strive to do better the next time.

FORBES: Like Umps and Refs, Bosses Sometimes Make the Wrong Call

But Hyman did admit that there was clearly a mistake in some analysts' research last year.

BBC: Analysts 'blamed' for internet share losses

What he really wanted was for Mr Ghosn simply to go on television and admit that Renault had made a mistake.

ECONOMIST: The Renault ��spying�� affair

They resist at all costs the temptation to justify the actions they took yesterday or last year or a decade ago (which the voters heartily endorsed), and admit openly and gratefully that all of these were a terrible mistake, based on a false premise, exhibiting an unforgivable arrogance, that they will never be stupid enough to pursue, believe or exhibit ever again.

ECONOMIST: William Hague��s ever so humble pie