On Skepticism
Recent conversations with Grasshopper have led me to ponder the role of skepticism in our culture and why it seems to be so very unpopular.
The common response is that skepticism forces us to challenge cherished beliefs and is thereby a buzz-kill. While I'm sure this is a major part of it, it seems to me that there's something more to it than that.
Poking around for alternative perspectives, I found this
interesting site.
Whatever your opinion of biblical mythology, it is the basis for our memetic evolution. Under this interpretation of antediluvian theology, skepticism is inherently evil, because it interferes with our ability to receive truth directly and instead makes truth subject to sense and reason.
I'm beginning to think that many people operate unconsciously on this principle (whether they subscribe to biblical myth or not).
Posted by Jason at June 18, 2003 01:17 PM