Why You Might Have to Choose Between Science and Faith

[MellowDem]

29. It's a bad thing...

It is people lying to themselves in order to survive in reality. It's a necessary thing if they wish to have their cake and eat it too, but in no way is it "good" IMHO. I can't think of where or how lying to yourself is ever good.

It is always a bad thing, because it makes it easier to avoid false beliefs. It is a response to the uncomfortable feeling that can be created when critical thinking says a belief you hold is wrong. If people didn't compartmentalize, they would have to confront their dissonance. That is a good thing.

Nothing I have said shows I have "rigid" ideas. I'm willing to change my mind if I see evidence to do so. Religion, by definition, is full of rigid ideas. Compartmentalization is a symptom of rigid ideas. I have the ability to recognize that people feel and see this way, and even why they do. I used to do it myself.

I haven't closed my mind to anything. I have opinions based on my current understanding of the world, but they are subject to change should the evidence present itself. I don't have to compartmentalize precisely because I don't have rigid beliefs.

As for Spock, I'd much rather have a world full of Spocks than Cpt. Kirks, but thankfully, it's quite possible to be an emotional being and logical at the same time. It just requires a self-awareness of emotions and how they impact us, and a willingness to be frank about what our feelings are. You know, a little honesty.