Belief is a powerful force in human psychology. When we hold a belief, it feels unquestionably right to us, regardless of its objective truth. These beliefs can either propel us forward or hold us back, depending on their nature and impact on our lives.
Universal Scientific Principles
Certain scientific principles are universal and unchangeable. For example:
Water Seeking Its Level: Water always finds its level, a principle utilized in ancient engineering feats like the construction of the pyramids.
Formation of Water: Combining two atoms of hydrogen with one atom of oxygen produces a molecule of water (H₂O).
The Sun's Consistent Cycle: The sun rises and sets every day, maintaining the cycle of day and night around the globe.
Thermal Expansion and Contraction: Most materials expand when heated and contract when cooled.
These are undeniable scientific facts that govern the physical world.
The Unconscious Mind and the Law of Belief
The workings of our unconscious mind are governed by principles as consistent as those in the physical sciences. This part of our mind operates according to the "law of belief." A belief is a thought that our unconscious mind has accepted as truth. It controls our bodily functions and influences our behaviors, habits, perceptions, and fears. Stored unconsciously, these beliefs instinctively guide our responses to thoughts and experiences.
Emotions and Resistance to New Information
Research using brain scans has shown that when we encounter information contradicting our existing beliefs, our brain's emotional centers become more active than our cognitive centers. Our initial instinct is to defend our beliefs against the new information. Strong emotions like anger can narrow our contextual awareness, making it difficult to consider alternative viewpoints. This is why those who wish to manipulate beliefs often evoke strong emotions, narrowing an individual's focus and critical thinking.
Belief Systems and Extremism
All religions and ideologies are based on belief in something or someone. When a dictator or extremist group believes a particular race or group is dangerous, they may rationalize extreme actions like "cleansing" them from society. While such actions might seem rational within their narrow belief system, they are neither reasonable nor acceptable when considering the broader context of humanity.
Fanaticism and extremism can be rationalized within a limited framework, making logical arguments against them challenging. However, when we expand the context to include universal human values and ethics, such extremist beliefs become indefensible.
The Challenge of Changing Beliefs
We instinctively resist ideas and opinions that conflict with our own beliefs. Conversely, we readily accept what we have already concluded to be true. This phenomenon explains why it's often difficult for us to accept new ideas or other people's perspectives. Our unconscious mind clings to established beliefs, making change a challenging process.
However, it is possible to change unhelpful beliefs and perceptions at the unconscious level where they are stored. Through conscious effort and self-awareness, we can reprogram our unconscious mind to adopt more beneficial beliefs.
Thoughts, Emotions, and Physical Responses
Every thought we have produces an emotion, often followed by a physical response. Studies have shown that emotional reactions can occur instantly, even before conscious thought. For example, if we suddenly hear a loud bang, our fight-or-flight response activates immediately. Adrenaline surges through our system, creating instant shock or fear. We don't first think, "What was that?"—we react emotionally and physically before cognitive processing begins.
For most people, this heightened state subsides quickly once the perceived threat is assessed. However, someone suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) might continue to experience the emotions and physical responses of the original trauma long after the event, even in the absence of real danger.
Conclusion
Understanding the science behind belief and emotion helps clarify human behavior. Recognizing that our beliefs are deeply rooted in our unconscious mind—and that they significantly influence our emotions and actions—can empower us to examine and, if necessary, change the beliefs that may be holding us back. By becoming aware of how our minds work, we can better navigate our reactions to new information, manage our emotions, and open ourselves to personal growth.
By exploring these concepts, we can begin to understand why we and others behave the way we do. This awareness is the first step toward personal development and fostering more accepting and open-minded communities.
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