Some time ago we posted a link to a great site called “I used to believe.†It’s a fun look at the naturally quirky world of children’s epistemology. We all used to believe something as children that we no longer do as adults. And certainly, continuing to leave behind naïve beliefs, unsophisticated notions and misunderstandings is a sign of intellectual and emotional maturity.
At the start of each New Year we are treated to the Edge Annual Question. It gathers some interesting responses from some of the deep thinkers in our culture: physicists, psychologists, scientists, writers, mathematicians, philosophers, journalists, anthropologists and social scientists. Each demonstrating an uncharacteristically humble stance in admitting a lack of omniscience.
What is the question behind the Edge Annual Question? It is: What have you changed your mind about and why?
Take a reflective moment and ask yourself that question at the start of your new year. Have you changed your mind about something this year? What? How did that come about? What did you have to give up in order to change your mind?
When you’re done reflecting see how other notables have answered the question: “What have you changed your mind about?†You’ll be intrigued. There’s enough interesting material here to give you pause about what else you may need to change your mind about.
