Beliefs should be like fluid entities within the mind, some malleable and doubtful, others more viscous and certain. But feeling certain should never be confused with being incontestable. Once a belief is allowed to solidify, it becomes like a shackle on the mind, inhibiting exploration, learning and growth. A fluid mind should never allow a belief to be so hardened that it is beyond rational scrutiny. A fluid mind always invites rational examination upon even its most cherished convictions.
“Openmindedness [is] letting go of thinking that you are absolutely right and considering the possibility that you’re not. If you do that and you come to the conclusion that you were right to begin with, that actually is very empowering. And when you can admit that you’re wrong, that’s empowering too. And people actually respect you a lot more when you admit when you’re wrong.”
—Barbara Drescher
Copyright © 2024 Daniel G. Delaney