Exploring Beliefs and the Quest for Change
Often, we find ourselves adhering to certain beliefs throughout life. But sometimes, the question arises: will we ever change those deeply ingrained views? In this exploration, I delve into the beliefs I hold and my thoughts on changing them.
Beliefs as a Lense
It is true that some believe they are among the unluckiest people in the world. However, I find that such a viewpoint is often shaped by our perspectives and beliefs. What is interesting is that, unlike the notion of being unlucky, holding onto beliefs is a personal choice. For me, changing beliefs does not happen unless I receive a comprehensive set of answers to all the questions and clarifications I have.
Exploring Relativistic and Nihilist Views
I have many beliefs that shape my worldview. For instance, I believe in the existence of extraterrestrial life, purely based on statistical understanding. Similarly, I believe there is no inherent meaning or purpose to life, except perhaps the biological imperative to procreate. It's important to recognize that not knowing everything does not mean holding a belief is unfounded. The existence or non-existence of a higher power is equally unknown, and thus, it doesn't carry relevance in my belief system.
Questioning Morality and Existence
Another important aspect of my beliefs is the nature of morality. I hold that morality is a reflection of collective human thought, varying from place to place and time to time. There is no independent measure to determine what is good or evil. Instead, morality is a product of human society's thoughts and attitudes in a given context. This relativistic view extends to how I view the value of life. I believe that there is no intrinsic value to any form of life; the value is bestowed by society.
The Case for Change
When I was a PhD student, I delved into the ethical aspects of animal testing. The Dutch law on animal experimentation emphasizes the intrinsic value of the experimental animal. However, my stance is different. I do not recognize any intrinsic value in life, whether that of animals or humans. We assign value to these entities, but fundamentally, they exist without any meaning.
Adherence to Relativism and Nihilism
I find that I adhere to relativistic views in some areas and probably nihilist views in others. My belief is not fixated on one particular viewpoint but rather a blend of these outlooks. This allows me to acknowledge different perspectives and consider new information without strict dogmatism. The willingness to change my views depends on the strength of the argument presented by others. I am not open to becoming theistic or creationist, and views like intelligent design do not hold much appeal for me. However, I always remain open to perspectives that offer compelling evidence or new insights.
Conclusion
Belief systems are integral to our understanding of the world, and they often form the basis of our actions and decisions. While certain beliefs may shape my outlook, the possibility of change remains. The journey of belief change is a continuous one, influenced by new information and compelling arguments. Ultimately, the quest for change should be driven by a deeper understanding and a willingness to listen to diverse viewpoints.