Science operates in the natural, not the supernatural. In fact, I go so far as to state that there is no such thing as the supernatural or the paranormal.
Michael ShermerRead
Smart people believe weird things because they are skilled at defending beliefs they arrived at for non-smart reasons.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Intelligent individuals can rationalize unconventional beliefs due to their ability to construct logical arguments, even if those beliefs are not based on sound reasoning.
This quote by Michael Shermer highlights a fascinating paradox about intelligence and belief formation. It suggests that smart individuals often engage in complex reasoning to defend beliefs that may not be grounded in rational thought or evidence. As a result, they can appear convincing, but their beliefs might still stem from irrational origins. This invites reflection on the nature of belief, critical thinking, and the importance of questioning the foundations of our own convictions.
Themes
BeliefsIntelligenceReasoningRationalizationWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about conspiracy theories, this quote can serve as a reminder to critically evaluate the reasoning behind our beliefs.
More from Michael Shermer
All quotes βBeing deeply knowledgeable on one subject narrows one's focus and increases confidence, but it also blurs dissenting views until they are no longer visible, thereby transforming data collection into bias confirmation and morphing self-deception into self-assurance.
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How can we find spiritual meaning in a scientific worldview? Spirituality is a way of being in the world, a sense of oneβs place in the cosmos, a relationship to that which extends beyond oneself. . . . Does scientific explanation of the world diminish its spiritual beauty? I think not. Science and spirituality are complementary, not conflicting; additive, not detractive. Anything that generates a sense of awe may be a source of spirituality. Science does this in spades. (158-159)
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But because we live in an age of science, we have a preoccupation with corroborating our myths.
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Iβm a skeptic not because I do not want to believe, but because I want to know.
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My libertarian beliefs have not always served me well. Like most people who hold strong ideological convictions, I find that, too often, my beliefs trump the scientific facts.
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