In philosophy framing and asking the ''right " question is fundamental to achieving worthwhile discussion and enquiry. The more fundamental problem is, of course, that all philosophies are fatally flawed at one level or more just as we are all equally going to make some mistakes and be limited by insufficient or even inaccurate information.
Although education and good habits of research can mitigate against one making errors of judgment, in my view, the most important lesson of all is to learn from ones mistakes, to remain open to change given compelling new information.
Politicians and the public fall into the trap of thinking an admission that one has changed one's mind is sign of weakness when in reality it's usually indicative of strength and a flexible mind. In this regard the excellent ABC programme Question and Answers provides a format for ordinary people to ask questions to a panel of experts on the hot topics of the week.
For a variety of programmes click on the link http://www.abc.net.au/tv/qanda
then click on programmes and scroll down for one that may be of interest.
Although education and good habits of research can mitigate against one making errors of judgment, in my view, the most important lesson of all is to learn from ones mistakes, to remain open to change given compelling new information.
Politicians and the public fall into the trap of thinking an admission that one has changed one's mind is sign of weakness when in reality it's usually indicative of strength and a flexible mind. In this regard the excellent ABC programme Question and Answers provides a format for ordinary people to ask questions to a panel of experts on the hot topics of the week.
For a variety of programmes click on the link http://www.abc.net.au/tv/qanda
then click on programmes and scroll down for one that may be of interest.
2 comments:
The programs you mention do look very interesting indeed. I agree with you that keeping an open mind is a far healthier way of living than having hide-bound opinions. Earlier today I read an article that began with this brief paragraph:
Recent studies by psychologists and social scientists in the US and UK suggest that contrary to mainstream media stereotypes, those labeled “conspiracy theorists” appear to be saner than those who accept the official versions of contested events.
It's over here if you're interested in reading it yourself.
Hi Susan,
Thanks for the reference which I read with interest.
Part of the problem I think is the term "conspiracy theory" is applied in many different contexts; to ridicule a person’s beliefs in conspiracies, to dismiss as paranoia and to refer to conspiracies such as the Watergate conspiracy which are proven.
I do think many conspiracy theories could conceivably be closer to a form of legitimate knowledge than we often realize.
At least they can provide a basis for investigatory journalism or enquiry or to stimulate debate-what is missing from most of the media today.
Best wishes
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