forum for week of 19 September

Based on this thread it would seem that the general consensus is that beliefs and rationality are closely tied. I would argue that beliefs often cloud the decision-making capabilities of those in power, as well as affecting the daily choices of each person. Why do we stand firm in some of our beliefs, while understanding that certain others are probably untrue? Dieting is an example of this. There are countless methods that different individuals swear by, or believe in. How can such a situation promote rationality and clarity?

Clifford suggests that if an individuals beliefs are founded illegitimately, that is if there is a lack of good evidence, that person is subject to moral criticism. In another form, the individual has failed their duty as a rational human being by being fooled into false beliefs.

This raises a problem that can be exemplified in dieting. How are we to know who the 'experts' are? Which method actually makes one thinner and more healthy? Clifford is not suggesting that we distrust everyone, everything we are told. For him, the answer lies in social trust. If something is widely believed, it is more likely to be true. This, however, quite clearly does not provide correct beliefs every time.

Clifford leaves us with strong words to navigate through our beliefs with rationality. "It is wrong always, everywhere, and for anyone, to believe anything upon insufficient evidence." True to his doctrine, I must ask where is his evidence for this statement? With the internet, there is now 'sufficient evidence' and 'proof' for almost every idea, belief and opinion. The best each individual can do is question where the evidence is from, and who. Beyond that each of us holds some beliefs that are false, and the best we can do is to be open to criticism and change.