Having learned something, we tend to cling to that belief, even in the face of overwhelming evidence to the contrary. New information comes in all time, and the thing we ought to be thinking about doing is changing our beliefs as that new information comes in.
Interpretation
We often hold onto our beliefs despite new evidence suggesting otherwise, and we should be open to changing our views as we learn.
This quote by Daniel Levitin highlights a common human tendency to cling to existing beliefs even when faced with contradicting evidence. It emphasizes the importance of adaptability and the willingness to update our understanding based on new information, suggesting that personal growth and wisdom come from being open-minded and flexible in our beliefs.
In practice
A speaker addressing a group about the importance of adaptability in the workplace may use this quote to encourage employees to embrace new ideas.
As soon as you hear a proposition, the creative brain in humans assumes for the moment that it's true, and starts trying to find evidence. It's what computer scientists in the old days used to call 'Fifo:' first in, first out. The first piece of information that gets in has a privileged position, even if it's misinformation.
What music is better able to do than language is to represent the complexity of human emotional states.
Information overload refers to the notion that we're trying to take in more than the brain can handle.
That walk around the block, that fresh air, is going to help you work more quickly and effectively when you get back.
There are a lot of books about how to get organized and a lot of books about how to be better and more productive at business, but I don't know of one that grounds any of these in the science.
There's an ancient connection between movement and music. Most languages don't make a distinction between the words 'music' and 'dance.' And we can see that in the brain. When people are lying perfectly still but listening to music, the neurons in the motor cortex are firing.
That which is false troubles the heart, but truth brings joyous tranquillity.
Don't try to solve serious matters in the middle of the night.
People always make the mistake of calling an idea small or stupid because they don't understand how it's going to evolve.
If others hurt you, let the injury go. This is your test. If you let it go, you will find serenity.
Whatever someone did to you in the past has no power over the present. Only you give it power.
You need to learn how to select your thoughts just the same way you select your clothes every day. This is a power you can cultivate. If you want to control things in your life so bad, work on the mind. That's the only thing you should be trying to control.
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