18th-century philosopher's heaven

Author: Becker
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-01-01
Features: Like most people, I once held certain enthusiastic beliefs; I thought they were valid because they were logically derived from known, apparent facts. I have a good friend who, even after I presented all the relevant facts to him and repeatedly traced the logical steps that should convince a rational mind, still opposed my beliefs, either one or the other—this situation often troubled me. It's possible—indeed, almost certain—that he couldn't refute my arguments. But that didn't matter. He firmly believed it was against his will, and he still stuck to the same views; eventually, I realized, unfortunately, his mind wasn't entirely open. Certain chaotic emotions, deeply rooted prejudices, or unexamined preconceived notions made him unable to see the truth.