To hold an idea and convince ourselves we arrived at it rationally, we go in search of evidence to support our view.
Interpretation
People often look for evidence that confirms their beliefs rather than seeking the truth objectively.
This quote by Robert Greene highlights the cognitive bias known as confirmation bias, where individuals tend to favor information that supports their pre-existing notions and beliefs. It serves as a reminder of the importance of being aware of our mental processes in order to gain a more objective understanding of the world around us.
In practice
A discussion on cognitive biases in a psychology class.
In a society where the roles everyone plays are obvious, the refusal to conform to any standard will excite interest. Be both masculine and feminine, impudent and charming, subtle and outrageous. Let other people worry about being socially acceptable; those types are a dime a dozen, and you are after a power greater than they can imagine.
When you are trying to impress people with words, the more you say, the more common you appear, and the less in control. Even if you are saying something banal, it will seem original if you make it vague, open-ended, and sphinxlike.
The moment people feel they know what to expect from you, your spell on them is broken. More: You have ceded them power.
The future belongs to those who learn more skills and combine them in creative ways.
The Nihilistic Troll might pretend to be acting in the service of some cause or leader, but don't be fooled. The cause and their supposedly strong convictions are simply a way to justify and provide cover for their abusive behavior.
Only create associations with positive affinities. Make this a rule of life and you will benefit more than from all the therapy in the world.
If the provisions of the Constitution be not upheld when they pinch as well as when they comfort, they may as well be abandoned.
Although it is difficult to pinpoint the physical base or location of awareness, it is perhaps the most precious thing concealed within our brains. And it is something that the individual alone can feel and experience. Each of us cherishes it highly, yet it is private.
Women are not inherently passive or peaceful. We're not inherently anything but human.
History is the fiction we invent to persuade ourselves that events are knowable and that life has order and direction. That's why events are always reinterpreted when values change. We need new versions of history to allow for our current prejudices.
Honest difference of views and honest debate are not disunity. They are the vital process of policy among free men.
Why do you need a voice when you have a verse?
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.