Changing Beliefs Through Logic: Examining Controversial Issues

[zoobyshoe]

Originally posted by Bernardo
My original comment simply pointed out that I think that for something to be called a belief, it can't contradict logic. To believe something beyond the realms of what is logical (like Elvis is alive) is to be deluded not believing.

I just looked up the word belief and I don't see where it it only applies to things based in logic. Delusion, in fact, is roughly defined as a false belief. A belief can be logical or not, and still be a belief.

 

[Bernardo]

Your right. It is possibe to believe anything.

I'm not just talking about an individual belief - but an entire world view - to offer any benefit or peace to life it must be logical. (Though I still hold that even our individual beliefs need to stand before logic or they must be reconsidered.)

There's a quote from Discipleship of the Mind, pg 50, by James W. Sire that gets at what I'm trying to say,

"Our world view, then, should be both consistent and coherent. That is, not only should it not contain any contradictions, but it should be composed of presuppositions which fit well togehter, presuppositions which, because they are as correct as we can get them, give us a coherent picture of the way things really are."

In otherwords to be an Athiest and believe in reincarnation defies logic. Our beliefs must line up with each other or they become insufficient.

 

[zoobyshoe]

I agree that the more our beliefs line up with reality, the more benefit we'll derive from them. I was just trying to point out that the parameters you offered within which the word belief should fall, were not in line with the current definition of that word:
"...I think that for something to be called a belief, it can't contradict logic."

Your point may have been clearer had you said something like: "I think that our beliefs should not contradict logic."

 

[Bernardo]

You're right, I see the point you are making.

But if that's all there's to it - is there anything further to discuss? Beliefs don't need logic.

World views and their grasp on logic interest me quite a bit - thus my little tangent these last few posts.

Where does this go now?

Does logic need belief?