nce of proof
Belief is what makes us human. Belief allows us to face our fears and create community. We also own our personal tastes and preferences, which help us to believe in ourselves.
For millennia belief was a part of most people’s lives. Although we didn’t have to believe in fire (it is always hot), it gave us comfort and hope when faced with the unknown. The unknown is the place where belief thrives
Resistance to knowledge is not a good habit. Ignaz semmelweis proved with statistics that doctors should wash their hands before giving birth to save mothers’ lives. But doctors who thought they knew best ignored this, causing many deaths. Researchers showed that bacteria is the cause of many ulcers. Doctors who had a long-held belief in their practice resisted this data for years. When experts in any field resist research that could undermine their position, they do their trust and their own belief a disservice.
Not less, but more. There’s more proof in the world than ever before, not less. In a double-blind study, we have statistical evidence of what people click and how they respond.
It doesn’t mean that belief is less important. As proof appears in one area, we are given the chance to use our belief elsewhere, to make it useful. The way we express ourselves, connect and find comfort is through our personal taste, placebos, and how we dance in the future.
The time we waste arguing over proofs we are not willing to accept, is just wasted. Belief requires proof like a fish needs bicycles.
