A fluid mind will always bring rational thought to bear on beliefs. Beliefs should be fluid entities within the mind, some more certain and viscous, others doubtful and mutable. A fluid mind never feels so certain of a belief that it loses its fluidity. When a belief solidifies, it becomes like a shackle on the mind, inhibiting exploration, learning and growth. A fluid mind never allows a belief to be so hardened that it is beyond rational scrutiny.
“A higher moral principle that encompasses both science and religion is the freedom to think, believe and act as we choose, so long as our thoughts, beliefs and actions do not infringe on the equal freedom of others. As long as religion does not threaten science and freedom, we should be respectful and tolerant because our freedom to disbelieve is inextricably bound to the freedom of others to believe.”
—Michael Shermer
Copyright © 2010 Daniel G. Delaney