Alex Burciu's Key Ideas from The Big Picture
by Sean Carroll

A planet of belief isn't just a singular thought or fact. It is a culmination of convictions: methods for understanding, inherent truths, aesthetic and ethical judgments, and so much more. Just as a planet has varied geographical features, atmospheres, and celestial phenomena, our belief systems encompass a spectrum of convictions. For instance, our love for a particular flavor or a mathematical truth might not dictate our worldview, but they certainly make up the continents and oceans of our personal planets.

Belief systems, like planets, undergo constant evolution. As we navigate through life, we often encounter beliefs that might not align with our existing views. When two contrasting beliefs clash, it can lead to a cataclysmic event, much like tectonic plates causing earthquakes. It's this natural evolution, churning, and readjustment that keeps our belief systems vibrant, challenging us to re-evaluate, adapt, and grow.

Our planets of belief aren't isolated. They are frequently bombarded with new information, much like meteors crashing onto a planet. Sometimes, this new information seamlessly integrates, but at other times, it might challenge the very core of our belief system. To protect our core beliefs, we often develop cognitive shields, or biases. These shields, though they might keep our belief planet stable, can also prevent us from seeing the universe's broader truth.

Our belief systems are swayed by two potent forces: our desires and our resistance to change. We're often drawn to beliefs that flatter us, make us feel significant, or align with our desires. At the same time, we resist information that challenges our established views, a phenomenon known as confirmation bias. Being aware of these cosmic forces can help us navigate our belief systems more objectively.

Being aware that our planets of belief are in a constant state of flux can empower us to actively shape them. The key is to remain open to new data, be honest in our introspection, and strive for a belief system that not only remains internally coherent but also aligns with the external universe. Just as planets undergo transformation through cosmic events, our belief systems too should be open to reshaping based on new insights.

In our cosmic journey of beliefs, the ultimate goal is to find or create a habitable planet – a belief system that allows for growth, understanding, and harmony. This requires not just internal coherence but also a compatibility with universal truths and the beliefs of others. By recognizing our biases, embracing the dynamic nature of beliefs, and seeking coherence with a broader reality, we can inch closer to creating belief systems where reason, understanding, and shared convictions thrive.