“A belief is an absolute but arbitrary mental stance.”
In this quote, Will Bowen suggests that beliefs are rigid mental positions that are often unfounded and are based on personal perspective rather than objective evidence. The use of the word "arbitrary" emphasizes the subjective nature of beliefs and how they can be influenced by individual biases or societal norms. This quote encourages us to critically examine our beliefs and consider their origins and validity. It highlights the importance of engaging in open-mindedness and being willing to challenge our beliefs in order to foster personal growth and understanding.
In today's society, the idea of belief and its impact on our lives is more relevant than ever. Will Bowen's assertion that a belief is an absolute but arbitrary mental stance speaks to the power and influence our beliefs have over our thoughts and actions. In a time where misinformation spreads rapidly through social media and fake news, understanding the nature of belief is crucial in maintaining critical thinking and discerning truth from falsehood. As we navigate a rapidly changing and information-saturated world, Bowen's words serve as a reminder to question our beliefs and remain open to new ideas and perspectives.
"A belief is an absolute but arbitrary mental stance." - Will Bowen
Reflecting on the quote by Will Bowen about beliefs being absolute and arbitrary mental stances, consider the following questions:
“People in Africa have a well-deserved reputation for being happy. This may explain why: there is no word in Swahili for "sarcasm" therefore Africans have no concept of saying something and having it mean a playfully snide version of the opposite.”
“Hurt people hurt people. We are not being judgmental by separating ourselves from such people. But we should do so with compassion. Compassion is defined as a "keen awareness of the suffering of another coupled with a desire to see it relieved." People hurt others as a result of their own inner strife and pain. Avoid the reactive response of believeing they are bad; they already think so and are acting that way. They aren't bad; they are damaged and they deserve compassion. Note that compassion is an internal process, an understanding of the painful and troubled road trod by another. It is not trying to change or fix that person.”
“Misery not only loves company, it derives validation from it.”
“Comics deal with two fundamental communicating devices: words and images. Admittedly this is an arbitrary separation. But, since in the modern world of communication they are treated as independent disciplines, it seems valid. Actually, the are derivatives of a single origin and in the skillful employment of words and images lies the expressive potential of the medium.”
“I explained to him - as I withdrew the cup, ripped open the sachet and dunked the tea bag - that tea was an infusion, which meant that it was vital for the water to be actually boiling when it came into contact with the leaves. He looked at me furiously... I had behaved like this many times before: taking Canute's stance in the path of the great surge of ill-brewed tepid tea that was inundating England.”
“Sometimes, rather most times, I believe, imperfections make us strongest if we are willing to embrace them for what they are, rather than try to hide them or deny they exist. So, perfection lies in imperfection and our willingness to accept those as part of who we are.”