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.
So this is how liberty dies. With thunderous applause.
The true basis of religion is not belief, but intuitive experience. Intuition is the soulβs power of knowing God. To know what religion is really all about, one must know God.
I think women are very complicated human beings, and I think there's an oversimplification of women when you see them on screen.
The ideal of the supreme being is nothing but a regulative principle of reason which directs us to look upon all connection in the world as if it originated from an all-sufficient necessary cause.
And you know, there's less charm in life when you think about death--but it's more peaceful.
The difference between a Miracle and a Fact is exactly the difference between a mermaid and a seal.
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