Quote:
Originally Posted by PennBF
Going back to the original note. There is a book "The Believing Brain" being written by a very respected researcher and as mentioned in prior notes the question is raised regarding the theory that first a person decides what they
believe and then proceed to build support for that belief. . The book is meant to raise some interest in the subject and stimulate the brain to consider the theory. I guess the note was to pass on the question to readers and not to try to get a specific answer nor proposing anyone accept the theory. It is clear that most readers did and do not understand the purpose behind the note and misunderstood it as a means of trying to convince rather than stimulating thought.  |
I haven't read the book but have some background in adult learning.
I guess my question is whether MOST people decide what they believe or is there much less intent with MOST people? I know that if I find some new idea that shatters my belief on something else, I tend to want to read more about it. Eg. Read several books by the same or recommended authors on the subject and mull that over. I often share the ideas with others in my excitement but then, I might come across another theory that seems more plausible and begin the process again. If I'm closed in a particular area, often I don't notice it until someone points it out. I may balk before I listen. The people who tell me are usually close to me. As the saying goes, "The ones that tell you you have goop on your nose are those who care about you". The rest stay silent.