The Human Resistance to Changing False Beliefs: Why and How We Hold onto What We Know to Be Untrue
Introduction
Beliefs are the foundational pillars of our understanding of the world. However, many of these beliefs may never be accurate, yet individuals resist changing them in the face of overwhelming evidence. This article explores the psychological and cognitive reasons behind this phenomenon, using the example of religious convictions, and delves into the challenges of belief change in a digital age.
Proving Things False or Untrue
When some beliefs are proven false, such as the existence of Santa Claus or monsters under the bed, they are typically abandoned by children as they develop logical reasoning skills. However, other beliefs, such as religious convictions, are formed and reinforced through early childhood and often persist well into adulthood. For instance, the belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the savior of humanity is deeply held and rarely questioned.
Example: Jesus Christ's Kingship and the Bible
Belief in the divinity and kingship of Jesus Christ is a tenet of many Christian denominations. This belief is grounded in the teachings of the Bible, particularly the New Testament, and is a central part of Christian faith. Despite religious leaders and scholars doubting or reinterpreting certain passages, many Christians hold onto these beliefs for personal and communal reasons.
Psychological Disposition and Belief Formation
Beliefs are not easily changed because they are deeply ingrained and integrated into various aspects of an individual's cognitive, emotional, and social life. People often hold onto beliefs that are consistent with their worldviews, even when these beliefs are challenged by new information or evidence. This phenomenon is known as confirmation bias, where individuals selectively absorb information that supports their existing beliefs while ignoring or dismissing contradictory evidence.
Education and Socialization in Religion
Religious beliefs are often instilled in individuals from a very young age, through various forms of education and socialization. For example, children frequently recite prayers and attend religious services, which reinforces their beliefs. In many cultures, the first encounter with formal education is often through religious texts such as the Bible or the Quran, which lay out complex and detailed beliefs and practices.
Challenges of Belief Change
Changing deeply held beliefs, especially in the face of strong social or emotional investment, is challenging. This resistance can be attributed to several factors, including the cognitive dissonance that arises when new information contradicts firmly held beliefs. Cognitive dissonance theory posits that individuals experience stress when holding two conflicting beliefs or when their beliefs and behaviors are inconsistent, leading them to seek to reduce this discomfort.
A Personal Journey: From Ouija to Realization
A personal journey can offer insights into the psychological and cognitive processes involved in belief change. Many individuals, including the author, have experienced the allure and the eventual debunking of beliefs such as communicating with spirits through Ouija boards. These experiences often begin with curiosity and excitement, leading to a gradual realization of the lack of scientific or logical basis for these beliefs.
Infants and Logical Reasoning
As infants grow, their cognitive capabilities develop, leading them to question and eventually discard beliefs that are not supported by evidence or logic. For instance, the belief in Santa Claus and monsters is learned and then challenged as children learn to think critically and understand the nature of reality.
Conclusion
Belief change is a complex process that is influenced by numerous psychological and social factors. While some beliefs, like those formed in childhood, are more easily discarded when presented with counter-evidence, others, such as religious convictions, are deeply ingrained and resistant to change. Understanding these factors can help individuals and society navigate the challenges of belief change, leading to more informed and rational decision-making.
Call to Action
Individuals from all walks of life are encouraged to critically evaluate their beliefs and seek out evidence and diverse perspectives. By doing so, we may foster a more evidence-based and rational society, where beliefs align with reality and scientific understanding.